This is post two of four posts encouraging ALA members to consider the carbon emissions generated by conference attendance.
Last week’s post explained carbon offset basics. A few aspects may sound troubling. Does this system allow polluters to continue business as usual, while claiming they’re “eco-friendly?” Shouldn’t we focus on reducing our emissions? Where are these projects happening? Isn’t the carbon footprint idea B.S.?
The carbon footprint concept does in fact have a dark history. About 20 years ago, British Petroleum’s (BP's) advertising agency devised the idea and used it to redirect attention and fury about climate change away from the oil industry – historically and currently the largest offender – and towards ourselves. See this Mashable article for an excellent examination of this history.
But! The U.S. has one of the highest per-capita greenhouse gas footprints globally. While demanding policy and industry change, we can still mitigate our personal emissions. Using carbon offsets is highly effective and relatively easy to adopt, according to Rare: Center for Behavior & the Environment. Verified carbon offset providers, discussed in next week's post, deserve our attention and investment.
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Larissa Brookes she/her
Chair, SustainRT Public Awareness and Advocacy Committee
Head of Reference and Technology Services
Fort Lee Public Library
Fort Lee, NJ
larissa.brookes@fortlee.bccls.orgSustainRT Public Awareness and Advocacy Committee, chair
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