November 2020 - we're launching this new carbon offset initiative!
The Footprint Fund is a community carbon offset program that will allow you to offset your carbon footprint by supporting local projects that benefit Missoulians. There's so much to it that we built a new website. Check out:
missoulafootprintfund.org
missoulafootprintfund.org
What is an offset? |
What types of projects will this fund in our community? |
|
An offset is a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in one place that can be used to compensate for emissions elsewhere. For example, you can offset the emissions from a plane flight by giving money to a project that will improve the energy efficiency of a home, which would not have been done otherwise.
Why should you buy offsets?There is a lot we can do to shrink our climate footprints, but we are still connected to energy and transportation systems that make it nearly impossible to get to zero on our own. Offsets can help bridge that gap. The projects of the Footprint Fund go a step further - not only do they help you reduce your footprint, but they help reduce a community member's footprint, too. All offset purchases go towards low-income weatherization projects, reducing the energy use in homes where residents need a reprieve from their energy bill the most. |
We are partnering with the Human Resource Council to evaluate the potential for offering local offsets here in Missoula. Purchased offsets would help fund residential energy efficiency projects for low-income households, allowing you to offset your impact while making a difference in a neighbor's life.
We often hear that housing affordability and climate change are the two most pressing issues facing our community. The Footprint Fund aims to address both in tandem. Offset Fun FactsThe majority of air travel emissions occur during take off and landing, so the fewer legs of your trip, the smaller your carbon footprint!
|
IMPORTANT -- IMPORTANT -- IMPORTANT -- please read and take to heart
You may be thinking that hey, I'll participate in this Footprint Fund and then go on with my life, guilt free.... We say, WHOA, there's more to it!
As much as we like offsets and believe this particular program is designed to assist those in our community who need a hand, we cannot stop here. We encourage everyone to ACT, ADVOCATE and ASSIST . All three are key. To turn the tide on this climate crisis we all need to tell our stories, support climate leaders, agitate for needed policies and be willing to use our voice. THANKS for doing what you can and then a little bit more.
You may be thinking that hey, I'll participate in this Footprint Fund and then go on with my life, guilt free.... We say, WHOA, there's more to it!
As much as we like offsets and believe this particular program is designed to assist those in our community who need a hand, we cannot stop here. We encourage everyone to ACT, ADVOCATE and ASSIST . All three are key. To turn the tide on this climate crisis we all need to tell our stories, support climate leaders, agitate for needed policies and be willing to use our voice. THANKS for doing what you can and then a little bit more.
What information do I need to calculate my carbon footprint?
We will have a Missoula specific carbon footprint calculator on this page when we launch the fund, but there are also plenty of carbon footprint calculators available online if you'd like to get a head start. Generally speaking, you'll need your utility bills, gasoline estimates from driving, and air travel history. For those who aren't interested in a specific calculation, we'll provide Missoula averages for things like residential energy use, vehicle emissions, and domestic flights, allowing people to purchase offsets without the trouble of tracking down old bills.
