What is a carbon footprint?
Sadly so much of human activity results in carbon emissions. Everything we do contributes to our carbon tally, from the industrial processes that make our clothes and gadgets to eating meat and heating our houses. Measured in tonnes, a carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases that an individual or an entire organization generates through its activities.
So why are environmentalists not convinced by carbon offsetting?
Inaccuracies and Manipulation
Additionality
Permanence
Over Estimation
Leakage
Greenwashing
For real results, carbon offsetting is the 2nd thing you need to do on the path to sustainability
In time organizations that ignore calls to aim for net-zero emissions may find this approach less cost-effective in the long term when governments implement more eco-inspired regulations.
Check out our list of 8 inspirational companies reducing their carbon footprint with impactful initiatives!
So, in the meantime, how can you choose a high-quality carbon removal solution?
What accreditations should I look for?
- VERRA
- The Gold Standard
- Green-e
- Plan Vivo
- Climate Action Reserve
- The Climate, Community & Biodiversity Alliance
- The American Carbon Registry