QANTAS Tree Planting: don't use dubious carbon offsets

Wednesday, 27 June 2007 22:08

“Attempting to reduce emissions by paying people to plant trees is plagued with difficulties.  There are many risks meaning that there’s no way of knowing that the offset will actually deliver what is being claimed.  Trees can take up to 100 years to absorb the carbon from a flight, yet the global warming crisis needs to be addressed in the next 10 to 15 years," said Jeff Angel, Director of TEC.

“Who will be checking to see that the trees haven’t died, been burnt down or bulldozed during the time it takes for them to absorb emissions?”

“Tree planting should be the last resort and only a very small part of reducing emissions.  Investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency through Government accredited schemes is a far more effective way to address global warming.  We need to be transforming core infrastructure, not providing feel-good band-aids.”

“QANTAS should be showing leadership by offering high quality offsets, not just playing follow the leader.  Otherwise they risk putting consumers off.  If the sector is tainted  with uncertainty, passengers will lose confidence and this will affect the reputation of Qantas and the offset industry as a whole.” 

“Emissions from aviation should be included in a robust emissions trading scheme, but people want to take action now.  The enthusiasm to reduce personal emissions should not be dampened by poor schemes.”

TEC’s report, Carbon Neutral Watch – corporates, consultants and credibility, points out the conflicting methodologies for offset approval, accreditation and monitoring processes amongst 17 companies and the numerous problems with tree planting.