Introducing the STM Digital Carbon Calculator

Measuring our impact, together.

At STM, we believe that advancing research should go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. That’s why we’re proud to launch the STM Digital Carbon Calculator — a practical new tool designed to help academic publishers understand and reduce the carbon footprint of their digital journals.

Every digital article hosted, accessed, and cited online carries a measurable carbon cost. While the transition from print to digital has vastly improved global access to research, it has also introduced a new kind of environmental impact — one that often goes unseen. Our industry, like all others, must confront its role in the climate crisis.

The STM Digital Carbon Calculator is a first step. Built on the trusted DIMPACT methodology, it enables publishers to:

• Measure the carbon emissions associated with their digital content

• Monitor changes and improvements over time

• Identify opportunities to reduce their digital footprint

• Collaborate with others on emerging sustainability standards

This tool is free, easy to use, and intended as a voluntary resource to support sustainability journeys — not formal reporting or compliance. It’s about transparency, shared learning, and meaningful action.

We invite forward-looking publishers to be part of this next chapter in scholarly communication. Submit your interest to be among the first to test the calculator and contribute to a more sustainable future for research.

Request access to the Digital Carbon Calculator