Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a carbon footprint?

Your "carbon footprint" represents the sum total of all the greenhouse gases you are responsible for putting in the atmosphere. The term carbon footprint is named after carbon dioxide, the principal cause of global warming.

Whenever you use energy created from fossil fuels such as oil or coal, you’re generating carbon emissions. Common activities that add to your carbon footprint include:

• Driving
• Building heating and cooling
• Electricity use

GreenTraks doesn’t estimate your carbon footprint we accurately track it using your actual fuel and utility usage.

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, the principal cause of global warming. Although complex in practice, carbon offsets are fairly simple in theory. If you develop a project that reduces carbon dioxide emissions, every ton of emissions reduced results in the creation of one carbon offset. Project developers can then sell these offsets to finance their projects.

There are hundreds of different types of carbon reduction projects. For example, a wind farm generates clean energy, which reduces carbon emissions from coal-burning power plants. In order to finance its operations, a wind farm can sell these reductions in the form of carbon offsets.

Why buy carbon offsets?

Carbon offsets help you mitigate your contribution to global warming by funding greenhouse gas reductions. Of course, fighting climate change begins with conservation. However, most of us will still have a carbon footprint. With carbon offsets, you can balance out 100% of the emissions you can’t eliminate through conservation.

How is GreenTraks Regulated?

GreenTraks supports the Kyoto Protocol and want our concept to support adoption and conformance of the Kyoto Protocol. Our program is based on standardized methodologies and systems recognized in the GHG protocol industry.

How Much Does GreenTraks Cost?

Prices vary depending on your requirements and based upon your fuel usage and facility size.

What are the benefits of GreenTraks?

1. It is an easy way to take a proactive 1^st step in a comprehensive approach to fighting global warming.
2. It is a very clear way of showing your organization’s initiative and commitment to sustainability.
3. You will receive the GreenTraks Certification Seal for letterhead, web sites, vehicles, and buildings, which show your organization’s commitment to the environment and encourage others to participate.
4. You save the money you are spending having staff or a paid Carbon Footprint tracking company input or aggregate the energy consumption data.
5. You get 3^rd party verification embedded in the process because we go directly to your vendors for the data.
6. Tree planting projects as carbon offsets also benefit your community by absorbing noise and air pollution, providing residents a more attractive atmosphere in which to live, and visible signs of progress with offsets.
7. There is tremendous employee satisfaction and pride gained working in organizations that are progressive and show leadership on causes that are truly important.
8. In one step you can help avoid the threat of global warming, take care of a stewardship obligation to our children and grandchildren, and take advantage of an opportunity to receive innovative tools.