We have developed a calculation engine for environmental sustainability. The concept is based on translating resource consumption into primary energy, factoring in geospatial and temporal variations in energy efficiency and resource scarcity. The results are expressed in “Energy Points” (EP). One EP equals the primary energy value of a gallon of gasoline.
Both location and time are assigned a value that we call EPG (energy per gallon), thus making the results intuitive, in analogy similar to the well-known MPG. Consumption divided by EPG equals the EP footprint, because familiarity and consistency are essential for inducing behavioral change. EPG takes into account location-specific factors, such as local energy mix (coal, hydro, natural gas, wind, etc) and contributing factors, such as scarcity, to enable accurate location-based decisions. The results are then presented in tandem with the financial metrics that are typically known.
The EP computational platform allows executives to compare activities across multiple locations and environmental sustainability domains and set goals relative to industry benchmarks. The concept also allows executives to choose the most effective modus operandi within their sustainability budgets.
