CNIS has been carbon-neutral since 2007 by offsetting our Carbon Emissions through ERA (www.eraecosystems.com). Last year, CNIS were responsible for removing 92 metric tonnes of carbon emissions from the atmosphere.
The green facts
Going carbon-neutral is not simply about planting trees, but also includes restoration strategies such as re-introducing native species, removing invasive species and creating biodiversity. Carbon-neutrality involves measuring all emissions, reducing these emissions by recycling and reducing and netting the emissions to zero by offsetting the remaining emissions through emission offsets.
Carbon Offsets is a financial instrument representing the reduction in, or removal of, greenhouse gas emissions. There are six primary categories of greenhouse gases, but carbon offsets are measured in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). One carbon offset represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide, or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases, based on their global warming potential. Individuals, businesses and organizations like ours can purchase carbon offsets to mitigate our greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity use, and other sources. CNIS’ major source of emissions is from air travel, while flying surgeons and obstetricians to and from Africa. Carbon Footprint is a measurement of the amount of CO2 emitted through the use of energy and the combustion of fossil fuels: in the case of CNIS, as part of our everyday operations, transporting surgeons and equipment, and holding courses in Canada and Africa.
