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Carbon Offset Program
Carbon Offset Program | Carbon Offset Program |
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A trip along the entire Outback Way could generate between 0.6 tonnes to 1.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide from a 4WD’s emissions depending on the size and load. By paying a small one-off fee Outback Way travellers can offset their car emissions with the Outback Way Carbon Offset Program. A collaborative program with Carbon Neutral enables travellers to turn emissions into trees that over time absorb an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide and thus help deliver a sustainable environmental outcome for travellers and the Outback Way. Traveller’s can purchase a carbon offset coupon by downloading the PDF form , from visitor-discovery centres or Shire Offices along the Outback Way. The systemic use of fossil fuels, the steady increase in industrial emissions and the build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are all contributing to global warming and climate change. One way to reduce carbon dioxide build up and contain the effects of greenhouse gas emissions is to plant trees, which is known as offsetting. But how does planting trees help? In order to grow, trees must absorb carbon dioxide through a process known as photosynthesis. This involves a process of absorbing carbon dioxide which splits water (H2O) to liberate (emit) oxygen (O2) and convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into plant-friendly sugar. Trees naturally and continuously trap carbon dioxide thus reducing the build up in the atmosphere. For example, six trees planted in Australia, and that survive for over 70 years, will absorb approximately one tonne of CO2 with 80-90% of the CO2 absorption occurring within the first 30 years (i.e. the early growth years). Planting trees can also help reduce salinity and soil erosion, help clean underground water systems and provide habitat for wildlife. The planting and harvesting of trees can also help sustain regional communities through investment, employment and trade development. The Outback Way’s carbon offset program has been developed in association with Carbon Neutral and relies on the planting of trees to offset emissions from cars travelling the Outback Way. Some cars use more fuel than others that require more tree plantings to offset their emissions. The Outback Way’s carbon offset program calculates the required number of tree plantings based on a typical return-trip of 3,000km, the size of a cars motor, quantity of fuel used and vehicle emission rates. This translates into a table outlining the required number of tree plantings as shown below. Car Size & Tree Planting Requirements
Travellers touring the Outback Way and who want to offset their vehicle emissions can purchase an offset coupon at Discovery - Visitor Centres in Laverton, Alice Springs, Boulia and Winton when commencing their trip or download the PDF form here or by phoning one of the Outback Way Shires. The average offset cost is around $35. |
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