What is carbon offsetting?

Carbon offsetting is a process that allows individuals and businesses to compensate for their carbon footprint by investing in environmental projects around the world that reduce or remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

Why should I offset my carbon emissions?

Offsetting your carbon emissions is a proactive step towards mitigating climate change. It complements reducing your carbon footprint and contributes to global efforts to achieve a more sustainable and balanced environment.

How do I know how much carbon to offset?

Our user-friendly calculator helps you estimate your carbon footprint based on your activities, such as travel, energy use, or events. It provides a guide to the amount of CO2 you might consider offsetting.

What makes your carbon offsetting projects trustworthy?

We partner exclusively with projects certified by leading standards like the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and the Gold Standard (GS), ensuring they meet rigorous environmental and social criteria.

Can I choose the project I want to support?

Our approach is to pool contributions to support a variety of projects, maximizing overall impact. While individual project selection isn't available, we ensure a balanced portfolio that includes renewable energy, reforestation, and community-based projects.

How do you ensure the projects are effective?

We select projects verified by reputable third-party standards and conduct regular reviews to ensure they deliver the promised carbon reductions and positive environmental impacts.

What happens after I purchase offsets?

You'll receive a certificate acknowledging your contribution to carbon offsetting. We then allocate your contribution to the selected projects and take full legal responsibility for ensuring the offsets are correctly applied.

How is the price of carbon offsets determined?

Pricing reflects the cost of reducing or removing a tonne of CO2, including project development, verification, and operational expenses. Our prices are competitive, offering value while supporting high-quality projects.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?

Given the nature of carbon offsetting contributions, refunds are generally not provided. However, we're committed to customer satisfaction and encourage you to contact us if you have concerns.

Will my personal data be shared with any third parties?

Your privacy is paramount. We do not share your data with third parties except as required by UK law to fulfill our services or if mandated by legal proceedings.

How can I request the deletion of my data?

You can request data deletion at any time by emailing us. We will promptly remove your information from our database in compliance with UK GDPR regulations.

How often do you offset carbon emissions?

We tally all carbon offsets monthly and then invest in verified projects. An independent auditor verifies our offsets to ensure accuracy and transparency.

Can I offset emissions for a specific activity, like a flight or event?

Absolutely! Our calculator is designed to estimate emissions from various activities, including flights, events, and daily operations, allowing you to offset accordingly.

What if I need a more accurate CO2 calculation?

Our calculator provides an estimation. For precise calculations, especially for large or complex activities, we recommend consulting with a third-party assessor for additional support.

What if I have more questions or need support?

We're here to help! Please contact us through our website's contact form or email. Our team is eager to assist you with any inquiries or support you may need.

Do you offer services for businesses and individuals?

Yes, our services cater to both individuals and businesses of all sizes, offering flexible solutions to meet diverse carbon offsetting needs.

How can I stay updated on the impact of my offsets?

We provide regular updates and reports on the projects supported by your contributions, showcasing the tangible impacts of your offsets on the environment and communities.

How can I be sure my contribution is making a difference?

Transparency and accountability are core to our operations. We provide certificates, detailed project information, and independent verification reports to ensure you can see the real-world impact of your contributions.

How do you ensure the projects you invest in remain effective over time?

We partner with projects that not only have a strong initial impact but are also committed to long-term sustainability and effectiveness. Regular monitoring and third-party verifications are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with high standards of environmental integrity and carbon offsetting effectiveness.

Can I choose specific projects to offset my carbon footprint?

While our standard and premium plans are designed to allocate offsets to a balanced mix of projects for maximum impact, we understand the desire for personal alignment. We're exploring options to allow customers to express preferences for their offsets and hope to incorporate more personalized selections in the future.

What happens if a project I've contributed to fails or underperforms?

Our rigorous selection and monitoring process aims to minimize such risks. However, in the unlikely event of project failure or underperformance, we commit to reallocating offsets to alternative, equivalent projects to ensure your carbon offsetting objectives are met without additional cost to you.

How do carbon offset projects benefit local communities?

Many carbon offset projects, especially those in developing regions, are designed with dual purposes: to offset carbon emissions and to provide significant socio-economic benefits to local communities. These benefits can include job creation, health improvements, access to clean water, and education opportunities.

Are there any additional fees or charges beyond the purchase price of offsets?

No, the price you see for purchasing offsets includes all associated costs. We believe in transparency and simplicity, ensuring that the process is straightforward and free from hidden charges.

How can businesses integrate your carbon offsetting services into their sustainability strategies?

Businesses can integrate our services in several ways, such as offsetting corporate travel, events, and operational emissions. We also offer consultancy services to help businesses develop a comprehensive carbon offset strategy that aligns with their sustainability goals.

Do you offer carbon offsetting solutions for large-scale events or conferences?

Yes, we provide tailored carbon offsetting solutions for events of all sizes. Our team can help estimate the carbon footprint of your event and recommend the appropriate number of offsets to ensure it is carbon neutral.

How do you stay updated with the latest developments in carbon offsetting and sustainability?

We continuously monitor the latest research, policies, and technologies in carbon offsetting and sustainability.

Can carbon offsets really make a difference in combating climate change?

Yes, when used responsibly as part of a broader climate action strategy, carbon offsets can play a significant role in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. They provide a mechanism for funding essential carbon reduction projects that might not otherwise have the financial support to proceed.

How do you address scepticism regarding the effectiveness of carbon offsetting?

We understand that transparency and integrity are key to addressing scepticism. By only partnering with rigorously vetted and certified projects, providing detailed reporting on the impact of our offsets, and maintaining open lines of communication with our customers, we aim to demonstrate the tangible benefits of carbon offsetting.

What measures do you take to ensure the privacy and security of my data?

We implement robust security measures to protect your data, including encryption, secure server configurations, and compliance with GDPR and other relevant privacy laws. We only use your data to provide our services and never sell it to third parties.

How can I track the impact of my carbon offsets?

We provide monthly updates on our website to show what projects we have been supporting.

What is the minimum amount of CO2 I can offset with your service?

One Tonne – our goal is to make carbon offsetting accessible to everyone. Whether you're looking to offset a single flight or a year's worth of emissions, we can accommodate your needs.

How often do you evaluate and update your portfolio of carbon offset projects?

Our portfolio is evaluated and updated regularly to ensure we are supporting the most effective and impactful projects available. This process includes monthly ongoing monitoring and annual reviews to align with the latest standards and achievements in carbon offsetting.

Can I offset emissions on behalf of someone else as a gift?

Absolutely! Carbon offsetting makes a thoughtful and impactful gift for friends, family, or colleagues who are conscious of their environmental impact. We can provide a gift certificate in the recipient's name.

How do direct carbon capture projects differ from other types of carbon offset projects?

Direct carbon capture projects involve technologies that capture CO2 directly from the atmosphere or emissions sources, which is then stored or used in a way that prevents it from entering the atmosphere. These projects are typically more technologically advanced and expensive than other offsetting methods, such as reforestation or renewable energy projects.

Are there any industries or activities you do not offset?

We are committed to offsetting a wide range of emissions across various sectors. However, we prioritize projects that have the most significant positive environmental impact and may choose not to support industries or activities that contradict sustainability principles.

How do you ensure that your offset projects do not contribute to greenwashing?

By adhering to strict verification standards and prioritizing transparency in our project selection and reporting, we ensure that our offsets represent genuine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to real environmental benefits.

What is the future of carbon offsetting, and how is your company adapting?

The future of carbon offsetting lies in innovation, increased transparency, and broader engagement across sectors. We are continuously exploring new technologies, project types, and partnerships to enhance the effectiveness and reach of our carbon offsetting efforts.

How can I get involved or support carbon offsetting beyond purchasing offsets?

There are many ways to support carbon offsetting and broader environmental efforts, including reducing your own carbon footprint, advocating for climate action in your community, and supporting policies and initiatives that promote sustainability and carbon neutrality.

How do you ensure the additionality of your carbon offset projects?

Additionality is a cornerstone of our project selection process. We rigorously assess each project to ensure that the carbon reductions would not have occurred without the financial support provided by carbon offsetting. This involves a detailed review of project documentation, third-party verification reports, and ongoing monitoring to ensure that each project continues to meet this critical criterion.

What is your stance on carbon offsetting versus in-house emissions reductions?

We view carbon offsetting as a complementary strategy to in-house emissions reductions. While reducing one's own carbon footprint is paramount, offsetting plays a crucial role in addressing residual emissions that cannot be eliminated due to current technological or financial constraints. We advocate for a balanced approach, prioritizing direct emissions reductions while utilizing offsets for remaining emissions.

How do you address concerns about the permanence of carbon sequestration projects?

Permanence is a key concern, especially for projects like reforestation. We select projects with robust management plans that account for risks such as fire, disease, and deforestation. Additionally, many of our projects include buffer reserves of carbon credits to compensate for any unforeseen losses, ensuring the long-term integrity of the offsets.

Can you explain the methodology behind your carbon offset calculator's estimations?

Our calculator uses emission factors derived from peer-reviewed scientific research, industry standards, and governmental guidelines. It considers variables such as fuel type, energy consumption, and travel distance to estimate CO2 emissions. We regularly update these factors to reflect the latest scientific understanding and methodologies.

How do you navigate the ethical considerations of carbon offsetting in developing countries?

We approach projects in developing countries with a focus on ethical considerations, ensuring that they support local communities' rights and livelihoods. This includes engaging with local stakeholders, ensuring fair compensation, and prioritizing projects with social co-benefits such as job creation, health improvements, and access to clean energy.

What is your response to criticisms that carbon offsetting allows companies to "buy their way out" of meaningful climate action?

We understand these concerns and emphasize that offsetting is not a license to pollute but a mechanism to finance additional carbon reduction projects while companies transition to lower-carbon operations. We encourage clients to view offsetting as part of a broader, holistic approach to sustainability that includes significant efforts to reduce emissions at the source.

How do you verify the social and environmental co-benefits of your projects?

Our projects undergo rigorous third-party verification processes that include assessments of social and environmental impacts. This includes adherence to standards like the Gold Standard, which specifically focuses on delivering sustainable development benefits alongside carbon reductions.

How does your company adapt to evolving regulations and standards in carbon offsetting?

We closely monitor regulatory developments and industry best practices in carbon offsetting to ensure our practices remain at the forefront of regulatory compliance and environmental integrity.

What is your company's approach to biodiversity conservation in carbon offset projects?

Biodiversity conservation is integral to our project selection criteria. We prioritize projects that not only reduce carbon emissions but also protect and enhance biodiversity, such as reforestation projects in areas of high conservation value and projects that restore natural habitats.

How do you ensure the financial sustainability of your carbon offset projects?

We select projects with sound financial models that ensure their viability and sustainability beyond the initial funding period. This includes a mix of upfront funding, ongoing revenue streams from carbon credits, and, where applicable, additional income from sustainable land use practices.

How do you address the potential for moral hazard in carbon offsetting?

We recognize the risk of moral hazard, where the availability of offsets could potentially disincentivize direct emissions reductions. To mitigate this, we engage with our clients to develop comprehensive carbon management strategies that prioritize emissions reductions and use offsets as a tool for addressing residual emissions.

Can you detail the lifecycle assessment (LCA) approach used in evaluating the overall environmental impact of your projects?

Our LCA approach evaluates the environmental impacts of projects across their entire lifecycle, from inception through to completion and beyond. This includes assessing raw material extraction, construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning or reclamation, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each project's net environmental benefit.

How do you reconcile the time lag between immediate emissions and the longer-term sequestration provided by some offset projects?

We carefully balance our portfolio between projects that offer immediate emissions reductions (such as renewable energy projects) and those with longer-term sequestration impacts (like reforestation), ensuring that our overall portfolio aligns with the urgent need for climate action while also contributing to long-term carbon removal.

What strategies do you employ to enhance the scalability of carbon offset projects?

We focus on projects with strong potential for scalability, leveraging initial successes to attract additional investment and expand impact. This includes developing projects with replicable models and engaging with partners to increase funding and support.

How do you ensure the cultural sensitivity and inclusivity of your projects in diverse communities?

We prioritize community engagement and stakeholder consultation in all projects, ensuring that they respect local cultures, traditions, and values. Projects are designed with input from local communities to ensure they are inclusive and deliver meaningful benefits to all stakeholders.

How do you assess and mitigate potential negative impacts of large-scale carbon offset projects on local ecosystems and communities?

Comprehensive environmental and social impact assessments are conducted for all large-scale projects, identifying potential negative impacts and developing strategies to mitigate them. This includes measures to protect local ecosystems, ensure food and water security, and support local economies.

In the face of scientific uncertainty regarding the efficacy of some carbon sequestration technologies, how do you proceed with caution?

We adopt a precautionary approach, prioritizing projects with proven technologies and methodologies while also supporting innovation in carbon sequestration with rigorous scientific oversight and pilot testing to validate their efficacy and safety before scaling.

How do you plan to evolve your carbon offsetting strategies in response to advancements in climate science and technology?

We are committed to ongoing learning and adaptation, incorporating the latest climate science and technological advancements into our strategies. This includes exploring new project types, and continuously refining our methodologies to enhance the effectiveness and impact of our carbon offsetting efforts.

How does your carbon offsetting strategy align with the IPCC's pathways for limiting global warming to 1.5°C?

Our carbon offsetting strategy is designed to align with the Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) outlined by the IPCC for limiting global warming to 1.5°C. We prioritize projects that contribute to rapid decarbonization, such as renewable energy and direct air capture, while also supporting long-term sequestration projects that are critical for achieving net-negative emissions in the latter half of the century.

Can you discuss the methodologies used for baseline scenario development in your project verification process?

Baseline scenarios for our projects are developed using a combination of historical data, control sites, and conservative assumptions about future land use without project intervention. Methodologies adhere to standards set by VCS and the Gold Standard, involving extensive stakeholder consultation and peer review to ensure accuracy and credibility.

How do you incorporate the Social Cost of Carbon (SCC) in evaluating the overall impact and cost-effectiveness of your carbon offset projects?

We incorporate the Social Cost of Carbon as a critical metric in our project evaluation process, using it to estimate the monetary value of long-term economic, environmental, and health impacts of carbon emissions offset by our projects. This allows us to prioritize projects that offer the highest societal benefits relative to their cost.

How do you address the ethical implications of carbon offsetting in the context of climate justice and equity?

We approach carbon offsetting with a strong commitment to climate justice and equity, ensuring that our projects not only reduce emissions but also deliver tangible benefits to marginalized and vulnerable communities. This includes prioritizing projects with strong social co-benefits, and implementing mechanisms to share the benefits of carbon offsetting more broadly.

What is your stance on the use of BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage) in your portfolio, considering the potential competition with food security and biodiversity?

While recognizing the potential of BECCS in achieving negative emissions, we approach its inclusion in our portfolio with caution, carefully evaluating each project's impact on food security and biodiversity. We prioritize BECCS projects that utilize non-food biomass and degraded lands, ensuring they complement rather than compete with food production and biodiversity conservation.

How do you evaluate and mitigate the potential rebound effects associated with energy efficiency projects in your carbon offset portfolio?

We assess potential rebound effects — where increased energy efficiency leads to higher energy consumption overall — through rigorous project evaluation and monitoring. Our strategy includes promoting energy efficiency within a broader framework of sustainable consumption and supporting projects that incorporate education and behavioural change components to mitigate rebound effects.

Can you discuss the role of nature-based solutions in your carbon offsetting strategy, particularly in the context of ecosystem resilience and adaptation to climate change?

Nature-based solutions are central to our strategy, not only for their carbon sequestration potential but also for their role in enhancing ecosystem resilience and adaptation. We prioritize projects that strengthen natural ecosystems' ability to withstand climate impacts, such as mangrove restoration and agroforestry, which provide critical buffers against climate change for local communities and biodiversity.

How do you address the scalability challenges of direct air capture technology within your portfolio, considering its current cost and energy requirements?

We address scalability challenges by supporting direct air capture projects that demonstrate potential for cost reduction and energy efficiency improvements through technological innovation and economies of scale. We also advocate for policies and investments that can accelerate the deployment and scalability of direct air capture technology.

What is your approach to integrating Indigenous knowledge and practices in the development and management of carbon offset projects?

Our approach involves respectful engagement with Indigenous communities, ensuring their consent and active participation in project development and management. We recognize the value of Indigenous knowledge and practices in enhancing project effectiveness and sustainability and work to integrate these insights into our projects in a way that respects and honours Indigenous rights and cultures.

How do you assess the vulnerability of your carbon offset projects to future climate change impacts, such as increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events?

We assess project vulnerability through climate risk assessments that consider future climate change scenarios, including the potential impact of extreme weather events. This involves using climate models to predict changes in the project area's climate and developing adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure project sustainability.

How do you foresee the evolution of carbon offsetting in the next decade, particularly regarding technological innovations and regulatory changes?

We anticipate significant evolution in carbon offsetting, driven by technological innovations in carbon capture and storage, bioenergy, and nature-based solutions. Regulatory changes, particularly those related to international carbon markets and standards, will likely increase the rigor and transparency of carbon offsetting. We are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments, adapting our strategies to leverage new technologies and comply with evolving regulations, ensuring our contributions to global climate goals remain impactful and relevant.