Purchase carbon offsets for emissions you cannot eliminate

After reducing what you can, buy verified carbon offsets to compensate for remaining emissions. Reputable providers like Gold Standard, Terrapass, or Native Energy invest in renewable energy, forest conservation, and methane capture projects. Typical cost is $10-25 per ton of CO2 offset.

Why It Works

Some emissions are difficult to eliminate entirely (air travel, heating with natural gas). Offsets fund projects that prevent an equivalent amount of CO2 from entering the atmosphere, making your net impact lower while you work on systemic changes.

Tips

• Look for offsets verified by Gold Standard, Verra (VCS), or Climate Action Reserve
• Offsetting the average American's annual footprint costs $150-400/year
• Offsets are not a substitute for reduction — reduce first, then offset what remains
• Some airlines and travel companies offer offset options at checkout