Carbon Emissions
As time goes on, the climate change crisis becomes a greater threat to the future of our planet. From large scale construction to personal use, carbon dioxide is released into the environment; through heating, charging, travelling etc. The surge of CO2 emissions since the industrial revolution (over 2,000 gigatons ) has left us in a position where change is no longer optional, it is crucial.
Despite C02 often being the main focus of climate change conversations, do we really know the impact it has on our planet? By contextualising what 1 tonne of C02 emissions look like in everyday life, we hope to highlight the importance that offsetting services, such as those provided at Orion, will have in facing this crisis.
One Tonne Of C02 In Context
Offsetting Carbon
Carbon offsetting is the practice of compensating for emissions by implementing more environmentally friendly initiatives that prioritize a reduction in C02 release.
As large-scale manufacturing contributes greatly to C02 emissions, Orion believes it is important to offset this where possible.
Orion implements the following offsetting features in their projects, in efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.
Solar/ Photovoltaic panelling: By absorbing sunlight and light energy to create an electrical current, solar paneling in Orion’s projects reduces the greenhouse gas emissions that would normally be generated by carbon fuels. Not only does this offsetting reduce electricity bill prices, but also goes a long way in reducing carbon footprint. The Energy Saving Trust estimates the average UK home with a solar PV system installed could reduce carbon emissions by 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes per year.
Air Source heat pumps: These are a highly efficient and low-carbon source of heat and hot water. An air source heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air and boosts the inside to a higher temperature These are another great option for cutting carbon emissions. When used with a renewable tariff, zero carbon is involved.
Biomass: Biomass is a renewable energy source that utilizes plant power. As Biomass is derived mostly from plants, it makes use of natural resources- as long as plants are continuously grown, biomass will be available
