Trees for Loughborough
A multitude of actions can be taken to help reduce our CO2 emissions, but the one recommended for voluntary adoption at Loughborough University involves carbon offsetting wherein a donation is given to a central account and the monies donated goes to the planting of additional trees to offset our travel related carbon emissions.
This approach would be one demonstrable way by which each of us can have a direct, measurable influence in helping maintain the stability of the Earth's climate. Approximately one third of the CO2 we discharge into the atmosphere comes from vehicle exhausts, but all forms of travel that use fossil fuels emit CO2. The best option in reducing CO2 emissions is to travel less, and for journeys that are necessary, to use public transport where available or share transport if possible.
It has to be accepted that it is impossible to totally offset the carbon produced when burning fossil fuels due to the nature of and timescale associated with the production process. The planting of trees is one way in which the adverse effects of burning non-renewable fossil fuel and the associated carbon emissions can be reduced. Trees absorb CO2 as they grow, a process known as sequestration. Therefore work involving woodland restoration or creation in addition to any such work undertaken as part of planned development projects would be a limited though demonstrable step to counter global warming.
The concept is of a voluntary 'Trees for Loughborough' initiative, modelled on numerous existing systems, but aligned to suit local arrangements, whilst directly benefiting Loughborough University campus and its environs.
In order to ensure that any additional benefits of offsetting scheme remain genuine, the scheme will involve the development and enhancement of wooded areas over and above those included in any planned or routine development or existing maintenance activities.
Donations to the 'Trees for Loughborough' fund would be voluntary, self-assessed, confidential and, other than for auditing purposes, only the total amount put into the fund and its allocation will be published. The fund will be maintained by the Finance Manager of Loughborough University Facilities Management through a 'ring fenced' account.
