Offsetting your CO2 seems to be the norm for every business that I encountered at the Green Business Conference. Instead of saying, “Who is your hairstylist?” like they do in the fashion industry they say “Who do you use to offset your CO2?” Most people at the conference offset their entire travel itinerary. The organizers of the Conference offset the entire event. Bands like the Dave Matthews Band are offsetting their tours. Here’s how it works: First you calculate the amount of carbon dioxide your activity is generating and then you purchase “renewable energy certificates” to offset that amount. The money from these certificates then funds clean energy projects like wind farms and biomass, paving the way for a greener future. For me the best part of this carbon neutral concept is that it brings people to a greater awareness of how their activities and lifestyles are affecting the earth. Once I calculated how much CO2 I use in just my day to day living I soon began to feel like a polluting pig. Just my flight from NY to San Fran alone put 2,010 pounds of carbon dioxide into the environment. (I offset that for $9.95, actually $8.96 with my greenfinds.com discount!) Check out terrapass.com to offset your CO2. Their user-friendly website makes it easy to offset your car, home, and travel. A Terrapass card makes a great gift for the holidays. Use the code “GreenFinds” to receive 10% off.
