Offsetting Carbon Emissions

Wouldn't it be great if you could neutralize the carbon you contribute to the atmosphere? Well, I have good news! Now there are simple steps to zeroing out the carbon dioxide you generate.

Climate change is being driven by the increasing amounts of carbon in the atmosphere. Your input of CO2 to the atmosphere, about 20 tons per person in the US, is mainly produced by gasoline burned in vehicles, electricity use, and natural gas consumption.

Carbon offsetting is an increasingly popular method of reducing one's burden on the planet. Projects are created and supported to reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Offsetting projects include planting forests, investing in renewable energy, and increasing energy efficiency.

Many new organizations provide easy payment methods to offset some or all of your carbon emissions. For example, a Toyota Camry, would typically emit about 8,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide per year (based on 12,000 miles/yr.) You can zero this out by purchasing carbon offsets for about $5o per year. Take a look at the following carbon offsetting organizations and see how easy it is reduce your burden on the planet.

• Terrapass
• Carbonfund
• Native Energy
• Carbon Footprint