CARBON OFFSETS
What are Carbon Offsets?
& How does it work?
Carbon Offsets refer to the reduction in emissions of greenhouse gasses, mainly carbon dioxide, that compensate for an emission made elsewhere.
Offsets can be achieved through projects inducing financial support to reduce the short-term or long-term emission of these gasses.
A carbon offset, thus causes the creation of less carbon, wherein carbon offset programs represent direct emission reductions. Buying carbon offsets can support projects removing greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere.
Carbon credits represent a general reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, whereas carbon offsets showcase greenhouse gas removal. When a carbon offsetting project monetizes its contribution to the voluntary carbon market, it is called the generation of a voluntary carbon credit. If one wishes to reduce the carbon footprint, the credits they buy would likely involve efforts of carbon offsetting. Individuals can buy carbon offsets, whereas only nations or companies trade compliance carbon credits.
Carbon offsets are therefore purchased by any entity wishing to reduce emissions.