Carbon offsets are the act of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in one location in order to “offset” the emissions you cause by using energy, such as auto travel and home energy use. Greenhouse gases are a GLOBAL (not geographic) issue. Therefore, greenhouse gases emitted anywhere around the world have the same global consequences. Conversely, greenhouse gases reduced anywhere around the world have the same global benefit. Carbon offsets are created by a variety of projects such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sequestration.

Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas; it is the most abundant gas found in the atmosphere. Thus, the terms “carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions” and “greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions” are often used interchangeably. Emission reductions are measured in tons of CO2. However, a project does not necessarily have to offset CO2; it can also offset a variety of other greenhouse gases such as methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O) and other potent gases. Regardless of which gases are offset, a project generates carbon credits (GHG credits) or emission reductions which can be purchased by individuals and corporations to counterbalance their greenhouse gas
emissions.

Source: Exploring the Market for Voluntary Carbon Offsets, 2006, Nadaa Taiyab

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