World Bank Group Goes Carbon-Neutral

This World Environment Day, the World Bank Group announced its commitment to going carbon neutral at its Washington, D.C., offices, its Spring and Annual meetings, staff commuting, and all operational travel from headquarters. This means that the emissions from these activities have been offset through investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency, and through the purchase of verified emissions reductions from projects in developing countries.

Operations in the Washington offices of the multilateral organization, in support facilities, and in business travel annually lead to direct and indirect carbon dioxide emissions of approximately 148,000 metric tons — 60% from operations, and 40% from airline travel.

The WBG’s carbon neutrality was achieved through:

The purchase of green power for 100% of electricity consumption, or 107 million kWh, through renewable energy certificates, which pay for the incremental cost of using clean energy instead of traditional fossil fuel energy.

The voluntary purchase of 59,400 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in verified emissions reductions (VERs) from projects in developing countries.

Green Biz