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Unlocking a Greener Future: Demystifying carbon offsetting and emission reduction

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We've embarked on a journey towards a more sustainable world, and today, we're diving deep into a powerful tool that's reshaping our environmental landscape - carbon credits and emission offsetting.

What is offsetting and what does it achieve?

Offsetting emissions is taking responsibility and counteracting our carbon footprint. It involves investing in projects that balance out our unavoidable emissions by creating an equivalent positive impact. Whether it's planting trees, supporting renewable energy, or enhancing energy efficiency, these projects counterbalance our carbon output, leading to a net-zero effect on the environment.

Why should companies embrace offsetting?

Companies play a pivotal role in the global sustainability equation. By offsetting their emissions, they demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship. This isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about taking meaningful action. To grasp the level of impact companies can make, it is good to know that the internet industry emits about 3-4% of global CO2 emissions, which is roughly as much as what the aviation industry creates. So, embracing carbon offsetting showcases corporate responsibility, bolsters reputation, and contributes to a brighter, cleaner future for all.

“The next tax will be CO2 based, and in the long-run it will be the most important tax."

Marc Korthaus

Co-founder , Inter.link

Why choosing PAS2060:2014 guidelines?

When it comes to offsetting, precision matters. Therefore, it is important to always seek the most recent standards and make sure that you are following those. PAS2060:2014 (developed by BSI) is currently the most up-to-date method to demonstrate carbon neutrality, as it is based on the combination of latest best practices and scientific knowledge. However, it is worth to keep an eye out for the upcoming ISO 14068 which once published will be the newest updated standard. 

How can PAS2060:2014 Guidelines Help you?

 PAS2060:2014 is a specification for the demonstration of carbon neutrality. It focuses on quantification, reduction as well as offsetting of emissions. These guidelines lay out a clear roadmap for effective offsetting, ensuring that every step taken is verifiable, measurable, and impactful. These guidelines focus on achieving real, tangible results through projects that not only cut emissions but also foster social and environmental benefits. It's about making every offset count, avoiding common pitfalls like double counting and leakage, and ensuring the longevity of emission reductions.

When choosing your project to offset, you should have the following points in mind:

  1. Carbon projects should meet the requirements of double counting, leakage, additionally and permanence
  2. Carbon credits should be verified by an independent third party verifier
  3. Carbon credits should only be issued after reduction associated with the project has already taken place
  4. Carbon credits should be retired within 12 months of declaring the achievement
  5. The methodology, validation and verification of the carbon offset project must be documented on a public registry
  6. Carbon credits shall be stored and retired in an independent and credible registry or in public equivalent.

From selecting the right projects to assessing additionality and permanence, these guidelines act as a North Star, guiding us to the most credible and efficient ways of offsetting.  

So, here's the bottom line: if we're going to offset, let's do it right. Let's follow a proven framework that maximizes our impact and sets a benchmark for excellence. PAS2060:2014 empowers us to offset with confidence, demonstrating that sustainability isn't a buzzword – it's a mission we're fully equipped to accomplish.

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