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Many of us in the treehugging crowd are aware of our carbon footprint and warily survey the landscape with the concept of carbon output on our mind. A carbon offset is a "financial instrument representing a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions." How, you wonder? Wiki tells us: "One carbon offset represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide, or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases." Ultimately, it's just a trade, right?
Maybe Treehugger.com can clarify: "Carbon dioxide, a significant greenhouse gas, is emitted into the atmosphere as a result our intensive use of fossil fuels like oil and coal. In simplistic terms this is 'bad.' One means of doing 'good' is by paying to balance (or offset) the equation, by funding projects that reduce our emissions of carbon (and other greenhouse gases)."
The folks at BeGreenNow.com add: "By purchasing carbon offsets and renewable energy credits you’re investing in cleaner technologies that help neutralize your impact on global warming." But this isn’t a magic formula. As green business guru, Joel Makower, writes "...buying offsets for an energy-wasteful home or business and calling it environmentally responsible is akin to buying a Diet Coke to go with your double bacon cheeseburger—and calling it a weight-loss program. Efficiency (and calorie reduction!) comes first."
Self-proclaimed science nerd? Learn the art of sustainable experiments on Planet Green TV's Stuff Happens.
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