Carbon Offset Plan Q&A

Q: Is the offsetting plan a reasonable one?
A: Yes – in fact if all sports and other forms of entertainment in this country adopted such a plan, it would be a significant step forward.

Q: How is the calculation of offsets performed?
A: The estimated fuel to be used by competitors, officials, helicopters, media and spectators, plus the energy consumption for accommodation, the service park and headquarters was calculated and this was then converted, using a software programme prepared by an independent expert company, into an estimate of the carbon offset required.

Q: How do you purchase the offsets?
A: They can be purchased from a number of sources and the rate we have been quoted is $15 per tonne.

Q: Why have you decided to spend money with local groups and Forests NSW when the Kyoto Protocol suggests the projects should go to economically-distressed countries or regions?
A: We feel more comfortable recommending supporting the local area.

Q: Why haven’t you recommended offsetting ALL emissions related to the event?
A: We support the FIA view that you have to encourage people to take responsibility for their own actions and that there be a “user-pay” principal where possible. The organisers are doing that with spectators and are asking the competitors to do that with their flights and freight.

Q: If you use local Landcare or similar groups, how will you ensure that the trees are actually planted and maintained (and not cut down)?
A: We will require the normal guarantees and certification to be in place.