Author: Rohit Gade (AUT) - Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions globally, with air and road travel accounting for a significant portion. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in New Zealand often lack the tools and resources to measure and mitigate these emissions. This study introduces the R2 Carbon Tool, a specialised emissions calculator designed for SMEs to assess per-employee carbon emissions from international and domestic air travel, as well as road commuting.
The tool provides insights into potential reductions through behavioural changes such as flight prioritisation and alternative transport modes like trains, buses, and electric vehicles. Findings showed that for every tonne of CO₂e reduced, organisations could save approximately $50 NZD in carbon credits, preserve 3–5 trees, and reduce PM2.5 emissions, benefiting both the environment and public health.
Built using Excel and visualised through Power BI, the tool offers an accessible and scalable solution. It helps organisations set reduction targets, monitor progress, and understand the broader impacts of sustainable travel choices—bridging a crucial knowledge gap in transport-related emissions for SMEs.