The importance of the carbon footprint in environmental management in enterprises, marketing strategies and corporate social responsibility reports is growing. The paper focuses on presentation of this topic through a case study. The aim of the work was assessment of the carbon footprint of a scientific institute on the example of the Central Mining Institute (GIG), and analyses the possibility of using data collected under the procedures currently used at the Institute as part of the environmental quality management system to determine the carbon footprint, identifying key causes of climate impact and potential opportunities to reduce this impact. The application of the GHG Protocol methodology was presented in the work as well as key theoretical issues and requirements were discussed. The carbon footprint for GIG was determined in the 1+2+3 Scope in 2020. It was found that the Institute contributes to greenhouse gas emissions mainly through the purchase of electricity and heat, heat generation in gas boilers, employee commuting and the generation of municipal waste. Potential actions were proposed to reduce the Institute's impact on the climate. Thanks to a thorough discussion of the case study, entrepreneurs can assess the possibility of using the carbon footprint assessment tool in their organization and partially implement this methodology in their enterprises.

The term 'carbon footprint' appears in the surrounding reality more and more often. We encounter it as consumers when making consumer choices and as members of the various communities who are responsible for the environment and the planet. This term also appears in organizations and enterprises, e.g. as an element of marketing and PR strategies or requirements in announced tenders. It is an green marketing tool of increasing importance. During contacts with industry representatives, it was found that many Polish entrepreneurs are confused what are the benefits of calculating the carbon footprint, and how it can be calculated. There is a need for a summary of information that will help to organize the topic from the point of view of an entrepreneur who is not specialized in life cycle assessment or climate change. The article, using a systematic approach, introduces the concept of the carbon footprint, the possibilities of its application, the methodology of its calculation and examples of activities enabling its reduction. Thus, it aims to make it easier for entrepreneurs to consider the feasibility and advisability of calculating and monitoring the carbon footprint for their organization. Additionally, the paper may contribute to the popularization of the carbon footprint application among Polish entrepreneurs, as well as to greater care for the environment and climate.