Buy and forget

 
Published: Wednesday 15 October 2008

CarbonOffsetList.org

Are you worried about how to offset emissions you have created while driving, flying or using electricity at home? The answer is simple invest in a carbon offset project that helps you neutralize greenhouse gases produced from your activities, no matter where they are on earth.

A US-based environmental advocacy group, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), has come up with an independent guide, CarbonOffsetList.org. This online resource offers direct access to a list of emissions reduction projects that ensure eco-security. It features 12 "high-quality projects", which have been "reviewed carefully" by a committee of external experts. The novel technologies range from capturing methane gas from landfills and connecting long-haul trucks to the power grid, to improving wastewater management practices for optimized use of natural resources.

While a serious doubt remains about EDF's winnowing process because there must be hundreds of similar projects across the world, EDF says the attempt is to help bring transparency to the fast-growing voluntary carbon offset market.

The database offers a complete description of the project, the technology used as well as the entrepreneurs involved. It also guides you through the financial aspects of individual projects. Are you still confused about how much to invest? Wait.

The website has a carbon footprint calculator that will help you calculate your contribution to GHG emissions.

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