The Role of APIs in Carbon Footprint Management

What is an API?

API (Application Programming Interface) is a system that allows different software to communicate with each other. An API defines the methods necessary for an application to interact with another application within certain boundaries.

For example; you are in a restaurant, you selected a dish from the menu, and you told the waiter. In the following process, the waiter conveyed your order to the chef and later brought the meal to your table when it was ready. Thus, it served as a ‘bridge’ between the one preparing the meal and the one ordering it. APIs play a similar role in software systems: they allow an application (client) to receive data from another application (server) or to perform operations on that application.

Why Use APIs?

Nowadays, people have started to order shopping and food via the internet. In this period where personal comfort and time-saving have gained such importance, the significance of the service sector has come to light. 

This perspective has also changed the methods of program development. Developers who do not want to waste time with complex codes that constitute the main functions behind the programs they develop have been able to complete complex projects, which were expected to take a long time, more quickly by using APIs.

Key Features

• Encapsulation: APIs hide the complex functions running in the background of systems and provide only the necessary function to the user. 

• Standardization: It allows different applications to communicate in the same language.

• Flexibility and Speed: It facilitates data sharing between applications, allowing some target functions to be requested from other programs. Thus, it accelerates business processes.

• Security: Since the request is sent to a single server using an API instead of sending data to a shared server, the data is transmitted securely.

• Ease of Maintenance: Since APIs can be seen as a communication tool between software, as long as the ‘request’ and ‘response’ are correct in themselves, changes in code made by one party do not affect the other.

Different Types of APIs

• Internal API: This is the type of API used in internal systems, as the name suggests. It is not open to external access, only users within the system can use it.

• Public API: This type of API is open to the public and can be used by anyone. While some have charges and different rules, some are completely free and accessible.

• Partner API: This is a type of API used for the benefit of special collaborations between companies and organizations. Although it is open to external developers, it is generally not free.

• Composite API: This combines multiple APIs for complex operations.

API Services in Carbon Footprint Management

In today's world, where Excel is becoming outdated, and ERP systems and IoT technologies are popular; like other business functions, the carbon footprint management processes are also increasingly shifting to digital environments. Organizations active in carbon footprint management processes need digital management platforms to take faster and more reliable actions in the field of sustainability.

In this regard, various solutions are available for companies. However, in this period where corporate sustainability has gained great importance, companies may not want to manage their carbon footprint management processes independently from the integrated systems they have established. Utilizing API services may be more optimal than developing a management interface without infrastructure.

Situations Where API Use in Carbon Footprint Management May Be Beneficial

• Internal Systems: Various institutions manage all their operations through a single system they establish. When these mentioned institutions want a model that works integrated with their systems regarding carbon footprint, carbon footprint management APIs can be more efficient in terms of human resources.

• Transportation Emissions: API usage is recommended for institutions that carry out a large number of logistics operations. These mentioned institutions can find the optimal route between points A and B by integrating carbon footprint management APIs into their systems; they can compare the routes found based on distance, fuel consumption, and transportation emissions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Carbon Footprint API Provider

• Provider's Service Quality: To maintain the continuity of API services, both applications in communication must work properly. If the provider's system is down, the requested functions cannot be received, which could cause the whole system to crash.

• Compliance with Standards: Since the provided API service will be used in carbon footprint management, it is crucial that the functions or data provided comply with sustainability standards in this area.

• Current Database: For the reliability of calculations and functions performed with the API service, it is critical that the API provider keeps its database updated with accurate data.

In summary, digital transformation in carbon footprint management is an inevitable reality today. If you wish to take action in this regard, you have options including developing a completely custom platform or utilizing a platform offered by another institution. However, if you want to use a custom interface but you are not proficient in calculations and functions, then a carbon footprint API may be the right choice for you.

CarbonSmart Carbon Footprint API

If you want to manage your carbon footprint in your own custom system and are looking for a reliable API, CarbonSmart's carbon footprint API is perfect for you!

You can actively use CarbonSmart API in 3 easy steps.

1. Integrate the CarbonSmart Carbon Footprint API

2. Calculate your emissions

3. Implement your solution

With over 30,000 emission factors and perfect compliance with standards such as ISO 14064, ISO 14067, and CBAM, CarbonSmart API is ready to be your backstage powerhouse.