What is a carbon offset?

A carbon offset is a certificate representing the reduction of one metric ton (2,205 lbs) of carbon dioxide emissions. Most scientists believe that global warming is caused by the buildup of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels for energy. An “offset” is defined as something that counterbalances or a compensating equivalent. Carbon offsets are a way for governments, businesses and individuals to pay someone to reduce or remove global warming pollution by investing in alternative energy projects like wind farms. For example, when you buy one ton of carbon offsets, the seller guarantees that one fewer ton of global warming pollution is released into the atmosphere. While the pollution you produce yourself is the same, you get the credit for that one ton reduction (the average American is responsible for about 9.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually).