CARBON FOOTPRINT AND ITS MITIGATION STRATEGIES IN JEMO GLASS INDUSTRY, ADDIS ABABA

ABSTRACT This research aimed at assessing carbon footprint and its mitigation strategies in Jemo Glass Industry, Addis Ababa, identifying key sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, quantifying annual emission, and identifying mitigation approaches. A mixed methods approach was employed integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. Primary data were collected from factory records, on site observations, and interviews, by focusing on energy use, raw material consumption, and production outputs. Emission estimates were calculated using the IPCC 2006 Tier 1 methodology and a custom Excel based calculator aligned with the GHG Protocol. Emissions were categorized into Scope 1 and Scope 3, enabling comprehensive identification and quantification of greenhouse gas sources across the production process. Results indicated that direct emissions from coal fired furnaces (Scope 1) dominated GHG contributions, representing 49.8% (1,732.5 tonnes CO₂e) of 2023 emissions and 51.76% (1,890 tonnes CO₂e) in 2024. Indirect emissions from diesel based raw material transport (Scope 3) followed, contributing 46.46% (1,616.64 tonnes CO₂e) in 2023 and 44.83% (1,636.93 tonnes CO₂e) in 2024. Total emissions grew by 4.9% year-on-year, from 3,479.29 tonnes CO₂e (2023) to 3,651.35 tonnes CO₂e (2024), attributed to expanded production and sustained dependence on fossil fuel. Despite recycling 25% of glass waste (cullet) and achieving full solid waste recycling, the industry lacks GHG monitoring, emission reduction targets, and relies entirely on diesel logistics. The study underscores the necessity of technological innovation and supply chain optimization for decarbonizing energy intensive industries, offering a model for sustainable transitions in emerging economies to ensure Ethiopians commitments to global climate innitiatives.