What is CDP Climate?

What it is

CDP runs disclosure requests on behalf of investors and large buyers. Its climate questions align with the TCFD and ISSB structure, covering governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics and targets.

Responses are scored from A to D minus, based on disclosure, awareness, management and leadership. CDP has moved toward an integrated questionnaire across climate, water and other themes, so check current guidance for structure and deadlines.

A strong response shows more than a total. It explains where emissions come from, which initiatives reduced them and by how much, and how the company knows. Estimated savings carry less weight than savings measured against a baseline, and verified emissions data scores better than unverified data.

Who it applies to / where it is used

Companies respond when requested by investor signatories, by customers through supply chain programs, or voluntarily. Many suppliers to large companies are asked to disclose through CDP.

How it is measured / what evidence it needs

Energy and emissions questions are answered from activity data. Measured data lets a company show real year-to-year change.

• Scope 1 and 2 emissions with methods and factors
• Energy consumption by source
• Emissions reduction initiatives with estimated savings
• Targets and progress
• Verification status of reported emissions

How Aqueduct helps

Aqueduct supplies metered energy and emissions inputs and verified results of reduction initiatives for the CDP response.

• Metered energy by site and source through aQ EnergySmart
• Verified savings for each initiative, measured at the meter
• Water data from aQ WaterGuard for the water questions
• Exports through aQ Assurance for the sustainability team