Carbon offsetting means supporting projects that reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions elsewhere, for example through renewable energy or energy access initiatives.

It is one way to contribute to climate action, but it does not offset the emissions from a flight.

Estimate your emissions
Use a reliable tool, such as the CO₂ calculator from the German Federal Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), to understand the emissions caused by your journey.

Choose credible projects
Select projects that:

• are independently verified
• provide long-term environmental benefits
• support local communities

Make a contribution
Offset the estimated emissions through a trusted provider.

The quality of carbon offset projects varies. Some projects deliver measurable emission reductions, while others have limited or uncertain impact. Look for projects that are independently verified, transparent, and designed for long-term impact. Even then, results are not guaranteed.

No. Carbon offsetting does not cancel out emissions from a flight. It supports emission reductions elsewhere, but the original emissions are still released into the atmosphere. Offsetting should therefore be seen as a contribution, not a solution.

The impact of carbon offset projects depends on their quality. Not all projects lead to real or lasting emission reductions.

Prefer projects that:

• are independently verified (e.g., Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard)
• demonstrate additionality (they would not exist without offset funding)
• aim for long-term impact
• support sustainable development, such as renewable energy or energy access

Be cautious with projects that:

• lack of transparency or clear verification
• rely heavily on assumptions that are difficult to verify
• offer uncertain or reversible impact (e.g., projects where stored carbon may be released again)

Independent guidance, such as the Carbon Offset Guide by the Stockholm Environment Institute, can help assess project quality.