The project was designed to avoid or reduce overall air pollution and/or greenhouse gas emissions associated with the product service system. This may be done by

1. ‘offsetting’ greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon offset credits,
2. conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA) that identifies and calculates air pollution,
3. measurable improvements in energy efficiency resulting in reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and/or by
4. measurable reduction in transportation [shipping miles] resulting in reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

‘Carbon offsets’ refer to activities that reduce greenhouse gases, such as renewable energy, forestry, and resource conservation projects. Participation in carbon offset projects may be purchased as ‘carbon credits.’ Businesses and individuals may use carbon offset credits as a means of reducing and managing their greenhouse gas emissions. For example, an individual or a company may purchase 3rd party certified carbon credits to ‘offset’ travel- and/or energy-related greenhouse gas emissions.

See: http://www.nrdc.org/globalwarming/offsets.asp

Greenhouse gas emissions refer to the seven (7) man-made [anthropogenic] gases known to contribute to the greenhouse gas layer. These are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), nitrous oxide (N2O), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride [SF6], and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3). Avoiding and reducing emissions are mandated by the Kyoto Protocol.

See: http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php

Organizations that sell carbon offset credits have their carbon offset projects verified by a ‘3rd party certified’ entity. That is, a ‘3rd party’ that is independent of the organization offering the carbon offsets. In addition, this 3rd party has been accredited to perform the certification. Companies such as Carbonfund.org and TerraPass are examples of organizations that sell carbon credits and which are 3rd party certified.

https://www.carbonfund.org/projects

http://www.terrapass.com/frequently-asked-questions/

Air pollution may be described as the degradation of air quality caused by pollutants. Greenhouse gas emissions are considered to be air pollutants. In addition, Ground Level Ozone (O3), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Lead, and Particulate Matter are pollutants that contribute to poor air quality.

See: http://www.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/

Natural Resources Defense Council

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)