Investing in proper carbon removal through nature (as long as indigenous peoples’ livelihoods and indigenous biodiversity of the local land are preserved) is a daunting task, and technological approaches are the most effective way to offset it. As long as compensation is viewed as a temporary solution, the problem of zero-emissions persists. Offsetting should not be used as an excuse to carry on as usual.
Let’s dig more into some of the pertinent questions regarding this and know how these carbon offsets can make a huge difference.
Q.1 Do we need to talk about carbon offsets?
Carbon offsetting is a complex and often misunderstood concept. These are very hot topics today and often found in the news, so it is the best time to discuss them. According to NASA, the average surface temperature on earth has risen by about 1 degree celsius (2 degrees fahrenheit) since the late 1800s, and most of the warming has occurred in the last 40 years.
Climate change caused by humans has now become a serious cause of concern for people worldwide. This rapid rise in temperatures has also produced lots of negative environmental consequences, together with rising sea levels, ecosystem disruption, shrinking ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, and extreme weather events. Therefore, we all must stand together to fight this climate change.
Q.2 What is carbon offsetting?
Carbon dioxide has the same effect on the climate regardless of where it is emitted or the source, so a tonne of CO2 can be absorbed from the atmosphere. As trees absorb and store carbon dioxide from the air as they grow, making forests one of the most important carbon sinks.
Carbon offsetting is a technique of compensating for the carbon discharges that we emit into the air. Purchasing offsets will fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In other words, individuals and businesses can invest in wind farms, tree planting initiatives, etc., to “offset” the emissions generated by a flight.
Most carbon offset projects are run by governments and businesses that seek to achieve emission reduction targets.
Q.3 How does carbon offsetting work?
Carbon offsets work in many ways, but first, you need to calculate what amount of carbon dioxide is produced by particular business activity. Next, you need to purchase a CO2 certificate. For example, donate a certain amount to a non-profit environmental project. The amount of the donation must correspond to the CO2 emissions caused by the original activity. This allows you to “offset” your emissions to net-zero.
When you buy offsets, you typically pay a fixed amount based on a calculated price for each tonne of CO2 carbon dioxide it emits. This price depends on several factors related to the type of carbon offset project you choose.
An accurate calculation of CO2 emissions can be complex. Fortunately, there are software solutions that can simplify the process, like Climate Carbon’s own – carbon footprint calculator.
Q.4 How to select the right carbon offset project?
It is essential to choose the climate protection projects you support. In particular, the compensation program you select should have a significant and measurable impact on CO2 emissions. It would help if you were careful to choose a reliable project that is appropriately monitored and runs efficiently.
Q.5 What kind of projects qualify for this?
The carbon offset program covers all greenhouse gases, but it is measured in carbon dioxide equivalent and can be credited.
More than 8,100 projects are enrolled in the CDM program in 111 countries. The CDM program has issued over 2 billion emission credits called Certified Emission Reductions (CERs), equivalent to 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide reductions.
Among the projects in this programme are the collection and use of methane gas in pig manure to produce electricity in order to replace obsolete wood and charcoal stoves with cleaner alternatives such as ethanol. Individuals, businesses, or countries can purchase offsets.
Q.6 Can’t we plant more trees?
Planting more trees is one answer, and many countries have plans. However, as deforestation continues, tree planting cannot offset the carbon lost by existing deforestation, resulting in lost wildlife, plant and other species populations, or destroying Indigenous peoples’ living. One damage cannot be compensated by the other.
Q.7 What are the long-term solutions?
Climate protection is not a cure; it’s just a Band-Aid. Global efforts are needed, as well as political and public pressure on rebellious governments to encourage countries to protect their forests. To protect the world’s forests, at least $100 billion must flow into forest-rich developing countries each year.
Q.8 What is REDD+?
REDD+ (Reduction of Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) allows forest owners to raise funds for forest conservation based on the carbon value saved by maintaining or restoring forests. It aims to provide an alternative to destruction and exploitation. The REDD+ program is a rule that allows forest owners to calculate the carbon value of their forests according to agreed criteria and issue carbon credits when forest owners avoid deforestation or restore degraded forests.
Conclusion:
This article focuses on some of the most severe problems that need to be resolved immediately. This is a severe problem and must be taken seriously to protect our natural resources. Otherwise, it will be destroyed now and nothing left for the future. For more information do contact or write to Climate Carbon.
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Climate Carbon is a well-known, trusted brand that is working continuously to help and improve life and the environment. The company also offers numerous plans and policies to help people and the environment in many ways. This includes funding, implementing and managing carbon reduction, and offsetting programs worldwide to help people and organizations. Take responsibility for your carbon footprint now!