Carbon Neutral

To become carbon neutral,
first reduce all possible emissions and impacts and then
contribute to a measured reduction elsewhere to balance the rest

We are faced with the need for large reductions in greenhouse gases emissions over this century in order to minimize dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Outside of legally binding schemes for emission reductions such as the Kyoto Protocol, individuals and organisations can contribute to emission reductions by voluntarily reducing their demand for energy and purchasing carbon offsets to balance their emissions. The purchase of carbon offsets is part of a rapidly growing voluntary market helping to reduce the climate impact of specific activities to zero, otherwise known as becoming carbon neutral.

Although useful on a small scale, a growing increases in the voluntary carbon offset market will make its largest contribution by facilitating the rapid development and adoption of legally biding policies.

The Global Carbon Project has published the report "Carbon Reductions and Offsets" with a number of recommendations for individuals and institutions who want to participate in this voluntary market.

• Full Report (pdf, 1.0Mb)
• Presentation (ppt, 609kb)
• Fully hyperlinked Recommendations for additional information (see below):

Recommendations from Carbon reductions and offsets Carbon offsets are an important early step. Choose comprehensive carbon calculators. Set meaningful limits of responsibility. Put efficiency first. Purchase 100 per cent truly new renewable energy. The voluntary market has developed many credible offset projects. Offset projects that avoid emissions are best for the long-term. Carbon sequestration in plants and soils can be vulnerable but has additional benefits. Tropical reforestation and avoided deforestation are efficient, cost effective land based strategies. Choose offset projects with stringent standards. Integrate expenses for offsetting into the cost of activities. Make a  carbon emissions inventory. Aim for zero net carbon emissions.

The Global Carbon Project is commitment to be carbon neutral in our operations in 2008.

Global Carbon Project (2008) Carbon reductions and offsets. Coulter L, Canadell J, Dhakal S. Global Carbon Project Report No. 6, ESSP Report No. 5, Canberra.