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…all it’s cracked up to be? Going carbon neutral isn’t without controversy.
Some offset plans are better than others. One plan calls for planting trees to offset carbon footprints. But over time, some planted trees may not survive, so the planet is only marginally better off. Other offset projects may not make much difference to the climate because they support activities that were already happening – in other words, they aren’t making any new reductions in emissions. The David Suzuki Foundation has done a lot of research into “Gold Standard” carbon offsets, which are the best quality offsets you can buy. They meet rigorous environmental guidelines, and support sustainable development. The Foundation purchases Gold Standard offsets for its offices and day-to-day operations. For more information about the Gold Standard, and how you can offset your emissions, visit: Next>> Carbon neutral heroes
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Some critics contend that carbon offsets make it seem like we can buy our way out of trouble instead of making fundamental lifestyle shifts. This is a good point. The best way to fight global warming is through conservation - by not emitting any greenhouse gases in the first place. But buying offsets from renewable energy projects helps makes these energy sources economically viable, a necessary step if we’re going to move away from fossil fuels.
