This week’s indicator number is 3 percent, which was the increase in global carbon emissions in 2011 according to a new study published Sunday. The study’s authors predict another 2.6 percent jump in emissions in 2012. Given these developments, scientists say we are unlikely to meet the United Nations goal of limiting global temperature rise to less than 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

In the absence of governmental leadership on emissions—the current Doha climate talks being no exception—large companies continue to play a leading role in climate change advocacy and action. Shell, Unilever, and other leading companies recently called for a “clear” price on carbon to limit global emissions. Companies continue to set ambitious goals for absolute reductions in the carbon emissions associated with their own operations and, increasingly, their supply chains and products. Regardless of government activity, we anticipate the growing sophistication of carbon accounting tools and investor interest in carbon disclosure to continue to drive corporate progress on emissions.

This is an entry in our weekly series, The S-Curve Indicator, where we highlight a number that’s impacting the world of sustainability. Click here for more information about the S-Curve and our approach to environmental innovation.  This post was originally published on GreenOrder’s blog.