We’re always trying to find new ways we can reduce our dependence on unsustainable energy sources, do more to keep our air clean, and be kinder to our planet. As such, reducing our carbon footprint is truly important to us. We’re doing so through forward-thinking energy reductions and efficiencies combined with cost-effective carbon offsets. And now we’ve partnered with CarbonFund — who support third-party validated renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects globally — to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and the threat of climate change.
What Is CarbonFund?
CarbonFund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping businesses and people reduce and offset their carbon footprint. The group uses carbon footprint offset donations from both individuals and businesses to fund some really amazing work, and we’re super excited to be a part of what they’re doing.
Their mantra is three-fold. 1. We are all responsible for climate change (the average American is responsible for about 50,000 pounds of Carbon Dioxide per year). 2. Reduce what you can. 3. Offset what you can’t.
They support high-quality carbon offset projects. Here’s just a taste of what CarbonFund is doing with contributor donations.
CARBONFUND PROJECTS
Truck Stop Electrification Project
Energy-efficiency and Reduced Emissions
This cool initiative is looking to mitigate the emissions produced by idling trucks at truck stops. Though drivers have to keep their trucks idling to keep internal appliances running and their cab comfortable, there’s no doubt that a truck running nearly 24/7 sees more wear and tear on its engine and contributes to poor air quality at truck stops.
This project by CarbonFund is looking to change all of that, with a system that keeps cabs powered up and lets drivers power down engines. The coolest part? It saves about a gallon of fuel per hour.
Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley
Reforestation Initiative
This ambitious reforestation project seeks to reforest the now dwindling 4 million acre forest to its former 22 million acre glory. It’s the goal of the project to reduce advanced soil erosion caused by the lack of deep tree roots, as well as restore the local watershed and wildlife habitat.
New Bedford Landfill Gas-to-Energy
Renewable Energy Project
This cool energy project harnesses the natural gas produced by trash breaking down into a renewable energy source for this Massachusetts town. Using the captured methane and carbon dioxide gas, this project produces 3.3 MWh of clean energy to power four generators, contributing energy to the regional electrical grid.
How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
In addition to the fascinating projects CarbonFund is funding with partners and individual donors, they have a number of practical tips on their site broken down into categories to help people reduce their energy consumption.
From keeping your tires properly inflated to putting a stop to junk mail, there are plenty of simple things you can learn from CarbonFund to help cut back on your footprint.
Plant Trees
If you’d like to take a more direct approach to offsetting your carbon footprint, CarbonFund also has an option on their site that allows you to plant trees with your money instead!
Assess Your Wedding’s Carbon Footprint
Using their cool calculator, you can also calculate the carbon footprint of your nuptials and determine the cost of offsetting yours!
The Mission: Reduce, Offset, and Educate
Cleaner air and less dependence on unsustainable energy sources is what CarbonFund is all about, and Avocado is proud to be a part of this organization’s important work.
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