What is Carbon Offsetting?

Carbon offsetting is a globally recognized way to take responsibility for unavoidable carbon emissions. In simple terms, offsetting one tonne of carbon means there will be one less tonne of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than there would otherwise have been.  It is the fastest way to achieve emissions reductions and the only way to achieve carbon neutrality.

Climate change is increasingly on the agenda around the world. As awareness increases,  your customers, investors and staff are looking to your business to act responsibly.  It is impossible to operate a business without any carbon footprint. This means that after reducing what they can, businesses need to offset remaining, unavoidable emissions.

There are many activities that generate carbon offsets. Renewable energy projects , like a wind farm or solar installation can create carbon offsets by displacing fossil fuels. Other types of offsets include tree planting initiatives and energy-efficiency projects that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

The goal of carbon offsetting is to match the exact carbon damage done in one place with carbon repair elsewhere. This means you need to contribute a tonne of benefit for a tonne of harm.  Most companies outsource the repair part of the equation by making a payment to another company who will finance beneficial environmental work on their behalf. These carbon offset companies allow others to invest in environmental projects around the world in order to balance out their own carbon footprints. Carbon offsetting can help the world to tackle global warming by funding environmental projects that would not have happened otherwise. Good offsets are a win for everyone. An example is a wind energy project that would not otherwise have been financially viable. By investing in it, you’re adding to the overall supply of renewable energy which reduces the future consumption of fossil fuels. This helps shift the world onto a greener path.

Onyx Energy is committed to empowering those around us to be able to effectively contribute to conservation and make a meaningful impact.  Onyx Energy has partnered with Carbonzero, the industry leader in terms of carbon offsetting. Our partnership with Carbonzero assists us in our tree-planting initiatives. We challenge ourselves and all businesses to be conservation conscious.

 

How to Save Energy While on Vacation

The sun is out and the beach is calling you! Everyone enjoys a get away during the hot summer months but before you hit the road, consider these tips to save money and conserve energy at home.

Unplug everything

Many people don’t realize how many appliances use electricity even when not in use. It may sound like work but taking the time to unplug every unnecessary electric appliance or device will be worth it. Chargers, microwaves, game consoles, televisions, coffee makers all use electricity while plugged in, even when not being used. Stand by modes are not good enough, you have to pull the plug in order to save energy.

Adjust your thermostat

Air conditioning is a big culprit in raising energy usage and helping that electric bill skyrocket. If you are leaving for an extended period of time, adjust the thermostat. By increasing the temperature to 28-29 degrees you will save money but keep things cool enough to prevent damage. Your personal belonging, electronics and furniture will be unharmed.  Programmable thermostats are a huge help.  They can be set to cool the home off again just in time for your return. 

Turn off the lights

Walk through the home and switch off all lights.  Using timers or motion-detecting lights for security purposes is a great idea but be sure to use energy-efficient LED bulbs in the fixtures that are set to light up.

Keep out the sun

Windows let in light, which creates excess heat.  Close blinds and curtains to moderate the temperature and prevent your air conditioner from running excessively. This will save energy and protect your furniture from sun damage. 

Energy Saving Tips for the Hot Summer Months

Summer is in full swing, bringing lots of fun but the high temperatures can also mean an increase to your electric bill. These simple and inexpensive actions can help you save energy and money during the hot summer months.

Before you leave home for an extended absence turn off your air conditioner, or at a minimum,  turn up the thermostat. This is an easy way to use less power. Also, make sure the air filter is clean. Dirty air filters cause air conditioning units to work harder, therefore using more energy.

Heat up your food without heating up the house. A microwave is much faster and more efficient at heating things up than an oven.  Choosing to BBQ outdoors whenever possible is a great help as well. Not only does this bring the taste of summer to the table, it keeps the heat outside.

Keep the sun out. Curtains, blinds and shades keep the sun’s hot rays out of your house. Keep them closed on sunny days during the summer season. Also, trees planted near your house will add shade with the added bonus that, when the tree sheds its leaves in the fall, the sunlight will return just in time for the colder months.

If you use air conditioning, installing ceiling fans will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. Just remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room. Fans cool people by creating a wind chill effect but they do not actually cool the room.

Solar power your laundry. Skip the dryer and go for an old-fashioned clothes line.  You can’t beat free energy from the sun, but first make sure there is no rain in the forecast.

Onyx Energy is committed to helping both property owners and tenants reduce their energy use. For more information on energy conservation visit www.onyxenergy.ca.