The
Finger Lakes
Climate Fund, launched in early 2010 by TCCPI coalition member
Sustainable Tompkins, works to promote energy

efficiency projects in the Finger
Lakes area while strengthening the regional economy and assisting local
families in need. Carbon offset donations are used for grants to fund
energy efficiency projects that would not otherwise be possible in low
to moderate income households in the Finger Lakes region. These grants
help pay for insulation, air sealing, energy efficient heating
equipment, and other upgrades to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas
emissions
A carbon offset is a financial instrument designed to help mitigate
greenhouse gas emissions by investing in projects like tree planting or
alternative energy research. According to Gay Nicholson, president and CEO of Sustainable Tompkins, the average American emits 24 tons of carbon
dioxide into the environment every year. A $25 offset contribution would
mitigate 1.25 tons of carbon emissions from 7,066 air miles or 3,275
car miles.
Next time you take a trip, either by car or plane, be sure to purchase offsets using the simple and easy tool provided
here. You can even offset your home energy use. By doing so you will not only be helping to protect the climate but also investing in local energy efficiency initiatives.
ยป LISTEN: Gay
Nicholson gives a radio interview about launching the Finger Lakes
Climate Fund.