Measuring Sango’s Carbon Footprint: A Foundation for Climate Action.

In 2024, Sango’s total emissions were estimated at 372,104 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e). The largest share came from Scope 1 emissions, amounting to 317,394 tCO₂e (86% of total emissions). These direct emissions were primarily driven by the combustion of diesel fuel, both in moving equipment—referred to as mobile combustion—and in fixed generators—known as stationary combustion. Mobile sources included conservancy-owned vehicles and tools such as concrete mixers and fence mowers, which support daily operations from staff transport and infrastructure maintenance to ecological management and guest tourism. Stationary emissions came mainly from the use of diesel generators that provide electricity, supplementing the conservancy’s other energy sources.

Scope 2 emissions, related to the purchase of electricity, were lower at 27,340 tCO₂e (7% of total emissions) but still notable. In 2024, 35% of Sango’s electricity demand was met by Zimbabwe’s national grid, which is primarily powered by the coal-fired Hwange Power Station (which also generates more than 50% of the country’s electricity). Electricity is used widely across the conservancy—for electric fencing that prevents human–wildlife conflict, for lighting and climate control in guest lodges and management buildings, and for running workshops, cold storage, and butchery facilities. While some of this energy demand is supplemented by on-site solar generation and diesel generators, the grid connection remains key for Sango’s operations. 

Scope 3 upstream emissions were estimated at 27,215 tCO₂e (7% of total emissions). These stemmed largely from the fuel used by third-party service providers working on behalf of Sango. This included aerial activities such as annual wildlife counts and anti-poaching patrols conducted by ATS, as well as ground transportation and logistics related to property maintenance, safari services, wildlife tracking, and delivery of supplies including food and building materials.

Downstream Scope 3 emissions are particularly substantial, due to international air travel by Sango’s guests. In 2024, these flights were responsible for an estimated 109,627 tCO₂e. While these emissions are not formally included within Sango’s organizational boundary—consistent with tourism sector practices (UNWTO, 2023)—they are reported separately in recognition of Sango’s indirect role in enabling such travel, given its remote location and the nature of the experiences it offers.

This GHG inventory offers a clear baseline to guide Sango’s climate action. It highlights the most significant sources of emissions and informs the development of targeted mitigation strategies. The next step is to co-develop a formal emissions reduction plan, building upon existing efforts. Priorities include further developing solar photovoltaic (PV) installations—existing installed capacity of 337 kilowatts —improving energy efficiency across infrastructure and equipment, and engaging partners and guests to support a shared transition to low-carbon operations.