Saturday, January 16, 2010

Carbon Offset - A Great Way To Improve The Environment

By Melody Carter

Carbon offset is helping to save the world from the catastrophic effects of ecological degradation and global warming by its mission to decrease carbon emissions in large industries and manufacturing entities, as well as at an individual level.

Carbon offset is a way of decreasing the emission of hazardous greenhouse gases through different means like continuous reforestation initiatives, alternative and renewable energy supply etc. The greenhouse gas emission caps for developed and developing countries are regulated by the Kyoto Protocol, an internationally accepted pact, which was ratified in 2005 by most nations of the world.

The Protocol makes it compulsory for industries emitting above the permitted limit of carbon dioxide to bring down their emissions to prescribed levels, or they must purchase carbon credits certificates which can be traded in the market, or alternatively pay a charge for the emissions, which is known as carbon tax. One carbon credit, which is an older instrument than carbon offset, authorizes the credit's owner to discharge 1000 kilograms of carbon dioxide into the air, and this method is the most economical way of purchasing an allowance to release excessive greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Both global and local firms, to make their operations carbon neutral and improve their image in front of customers and investors, are increasingly purchasing carbon credits.

Another novel method, carbon offset, has paved the way for an excellent financial opportunity, especially in the developing countries, as the scheme provides adequate funding for eco-friendly projects that are created to help decrease the overall carbon footprint in the world. It helps in encouraging clean and renewable energy options like wind energy, solar power etc and other environment conservation initiatives like reforestation.

Even individuals are increasingly using the carbon offset scheme to decrease their carbon footprint and are advocating this method to others as well. Carbon offset can be easily purchased online through one of the several providers, but care should be taken to make sure that your funds are invested in the right projects.

Carbon offset is a great way to protect out planet but we must also keep in mind that making minor changes in our daily lives can be of great help in preventing further environmental destruction. We must stick to certain basic disciplines like switching off lights and other electronic equipments when not required, making use of low-energy bulbs and LED lighting, and opting for renewable fuels like biodiesel.

Carbon offset is still an alien word for ordinary people. Mass awareness on the issue through extensive education is required to bring us some steps closer to a clean and green environment.

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