The government has recently approved a new Royal Decree on the carbon footprint that marks a turning point in corporate climate action. From 2025, calculating, reducing and recording the carbon footprint will be mandatory for many companies in Spain, a measure that accelerates the transition to a low-carbon economy.
What is the carbon footprint?
The carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated by an organisation, product, service or event. It is measured in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent and has become a key indicator for assessing the environmental impact of any economic activity.
What does the new Royal Decree establish?
This Royal Decree regulates the registration of carbon footprints, offsetting and CO₂ absorption projects, reinforcing an instrument that has been in existence since 2014, but now with:
- Obligation to calculate and record the annual carbon footprint for certain companies.
- Requirements for the preparation and presentation of an emission reduction plan.
- Possibility of recording the carbon footprint not only of organisations, but also of products and events.
- Inclusion of new absorption projects such as soil or wetland restoration, not just forestry.
Which companies are affected?
From 1 January 2025, the regulations will affect companies obliged to present statements of non-financial information according to Law 11/2018, that is to say:
- Large companies.
- Medium-sized companies with more than 250 employees, 40 million euros in turnover or 20 million in assets, with the exception of micro-enterprises.
Furthermore, the regulations are aligned with the requirements of the European Directive on Corporate Sustainability Reporting (CSRD), European climate strategies and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), effectively promoting the ecological transition.
What does it mean for your company?
From 2025, companies included must:
- Calculate their annual carbon footprint (Scope 1 and 2).
- Register this footprint officially in the MITECO Register.
- Prepare and present a plan to reduce GHG emissions.
- Monitor their progress annually and update their plans periodically.
Beyond compliance: a strategic opportunity
Beyond a legal obligation, managing the carbon footprint offers competitive advantages:
✅ Improves energy efficiency and reduces costs.
✅ Strengthens reputation and environmental commitment.
✅ Opens doors to green financing, tenders and public aid.
✅ Contributes to the SDGs and global sustainability.
Is your company ready?
It’s time to get ahead of the game. Organisations can start calculating their carbon footprint, designing reduction plans and familiarising themselves with the new Registry.
More info: MITECO press release
