Compensation is a solution that integrates into a sustainable development approach. Its objective: to target the emissions of “greenhouse gases” (CO2, methane, etc.) in the atmosphere, as the increase in their concentration causes global warming.
Based on a voluntary approach, it involves financing projects to combat climate change, with the aim of offsetting our unavoidable greenhouse gas emissions. This tool is offered by the GoodPlanet Association’s Action Carbone Program, chaired by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. To understand the scale at which we pollute, a calculator has been set up on the website www.actioncarbone.org which allows measuring emissions related to air and car travel and energy consumption at home. A more detailed calculation method is offered to businesses and institutions with the Carbon Balance. Additionally, support and communication work is carried out with the help of professionals.
Action Carbone then estimates the financial contribution needed to compensate for these emissions (1 ton of CO2 is valued at 15 euros). Two options are available to you. One is to support “low carbon” projects that prevent greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the installation of wind farms and photovoltaic solar panels for electricity, or valorizing waste as fuel to produce energy. Another option is to fund “sequestration” projects that store carbon in a reservoir other than the atmosphere (notably reforestation projects). Forests can be considered “carbon sinks.” It is important to remember that plants, through the mechanism of photosynthesis, fix part of the carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere and release oxygen. During their growth period, trees absorb much more CO2 than they release. As trees grow, significant amounts of carbon are thus stored in the forest biomass. This is what is called sequestration or natural carbon capture.
Communicating about these actions is a focal point for companies and institutions engaged in sustainable development. Acting as a responsible entity or merely presenting that image is where limits are drawn. Indeed, greenwashing can distort and erode the credibility of an action. To what extent is communication therefore responsible? Can carbon offsetting be integrated into it? Nice Premium invites you to react.
One year after the program began, individuals and businesses have funded with Action Carbone the reduction of 30,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases and the sequestration of 60,000 tonnes of CO2. Are you ready to compensate in 2008?
For more information: www.actioncarbone.org
