Archives and global warming

Taking stock of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the National Archives of Brazil

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to report the experience in constructing the first inventory of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted by the National Archives of Brazil (AN) in 2024. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, the initiative sought to identify areas for improvement and reduce emissions of these gases in the largest archival institution in the country, contributing to the mitigation of climate change and the effects of global warming. The methodology adopted was the international standard GHG Protocol (2025), which categorizes emissions into three scopes. The inventory calculated a total emission of 2,220.2 tons of CO2e, predominantly from air conditioning in work areas (51.87%) and document storage areas (30.50%). The movement of people for on-site activities represented 13.4% of the total. The analysis of the results demonstrates that the AN's emissions are linked to air conditioning, vital for document preservation. A significant reduction in these emissions requires replacing refrigeration systems with devices that use clean energy. A crucial intervention was undertaken in 2025, abolishing the consumption of natural gas and substantially reducing future emissions. Other actions include the installation of solar panels and the continued reduction of commuting. It is concluded that archival institutions can be considerable emitters of greenhouse gases and must urgently integrate the fight against climate change into their mission, developing mitigation and adaptation plans to ensure the sustainability and preservation of documentary heritage for future generations.