Frequently Asked Questions
What is a carbon offset?
A carbon offset is a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—or an increase in carbon storage—used to compensate for emissions that occur elsewhere.
What’s the difference between a carbon offset and a carbon credit?
Carbon credits are typically used in regulated markets and represent a right to emit one metric ton of CO₂. Offsets are often voluntary and used by individuals or organizations to balance out their emissions.
Isn’t offsetting just greenwashing?
Offsetting can be misused, but when tied to high-quality projects and combined with actual emissions reductions, it can be part of a responsible climate strategy.
Can individual action really make a difference?
While systemic change is essential, individual actions can help drive cultural shifts, fund impactful projects, and build political pressure for policy reforms.
How do I choose a high-quality carbon offset project?
Look for transparency, verification, additionality, social co-benefits, and alignment with principles like the Oxford Offsetting Principles.
What is the goal of this project?
To promote the use of carbon footprint awareness and offsetting as entry points for wider engagement, education, and advocacy around climate change.
What is social marketing?
Social marketing applies commercial marketing principles to promote social good—like reducing emissions and supporting climate-positive behaviors.
How much does it cost to offset my carbon footprint?
Costs vary by provider and project type, but for example, One Tree Planted offers offsets at about $20 per 1,000 kg of CO₂.
Do carbon offsets really work?
Yes, when done properly. High-quality offsets meet standards for additionality, transparency, and durability, among other criteria. However, they are not a substitute for reducing emissions at the source.
Why should I offset my carbon footprint?
Offsetting helps mitigate the impact of unavoidable emissions while supporting high-quality environmental projects. It’s a tool for personal and collective climate responsibility.
Isn’t the carbon footprint concept a PR stunt by oil companies?
The idea was co-opted by BP to shift attention from systemic polluters to individual consumers. This project aims to reclaim it as a tool for awareness and pressure toward systemic change.
Which organizations do you recommend for carbon offsets?
We recommend organizations with proven impact and strong certification, such as Cool Effect, ECOTIERRA, Terrapass, MyClimate, Gold Standard, Atmosfair, Nature Conservancy, Carbon180, One Tree Planted, and others.
What types of offset projects exist?
Projects include carbon removal (e.g., reforestation, enhanced weathering), and emissions avoidance or reduction (e.g., renewable energy, efficient stoves).
How are you planning to reach people?
Through social marketing strategies that involve partnerships with local nonprofits, web-based platforms, and behavior-focused outreach campaigns.
How can I calculate my carbon footprint?
Use tools from trusted sites like MyClimate, CoolClimate (UC Berkeley), or the Nature Conservancy’s footprint calculators.
Can I support both global and local efforts?
Yes. Part of our approach includes giving to local causes (e.g., food security) alongside carbon offsetting to maximize both environmental and social impact.