Carbon Offsetting vs. Ecosystem Restoration

14

MAY, 2019

By Hanna Vinckers

Tree planting projects and initiatives are synonymous with carbon offsetting. So why do we prefer to look towards ecosystem restoration instead?

On an individual level, carbon offsetting offsets the impact you make in your daily life. This usually means offsetting the impact of your travel choices.

On a corporate level, carbon offsetting is often a legislative requirement. Many companies buy carbon credits to offset the impact of their business.

Since early 2006, carbon offsetting has become a popular way to give back to the environment. There are benefits, but often this simplified view can prevent the search for real solutions.

Benefits beyond carbon sequestration

Many of these projects can impact the local community through skills training and job creation.

It is a very simple process

It requires little to no action from the individual and is as easy as purchasing a tree or carbon credit online.

Offsetting can distract from looking for real solutions

The carbon offsetting process is very easy. Companies can buy more carbon credits instead of reducing the impact of their operations.

Offsetting projects are located abroad

Companies often invest in offsetting projects abroad. Even though the impact of the emissions is in the direct surroundings of the company. The sequestration’s benefit is thus far removed from the companies’ operations. 

There is a lack of transparency

Most of the time you can’t track your donations. It can be very challenging to verify the impact of your donation.