Carbon footprint in the system of ESG strategies of petrochemical industry companies

The article considers the carbon footprint as one of the key indicators of environmental efficiency in the system of ESG strategies of companies in the petrochemical industry. The necessity of controlling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the petrochemical sector, characterized by a high carbon footprint and significant environmental impact, is substantiated. The main methods of carbon footprint assessment are analyzed, including the product lifecycle methodology, the territorial approach, the consumption-based approach, and the corporate emissions accounting method. Their advantages, disadvantages and limitations of their application in the petrochemical industry are revealed. In order to increase the objectivity of the ESG assessment, an indicator of the carbon intensity of products is proposed, which allows taking into account the amount of greenhouse gas emissions per unit of output. Additionally, an indicator of the effectiveness of investments in decarbonization has been developed, reflecting the effectiveness of environmental investments by companies. It is concluded that it is advisable to introduce quantitative indicators of carbon efficiency to increase the reliability of ESG ratings and improve the environmental management system in the petrochemical industry.