What is the Carbon Cycle? July 25, 2016 The Carbon Cycle is the environmental system that describes the movement of carbon from organisms to the atmosphere and back. Carbon plays an important role on the Earth as all organisms are made from carbon compounds and are in themselves a part of the cycle. This allows for carbon levels to be regulated, ensuring that the global temperature is under control. The amount of carbon moving in the Carbon Cycle is fairly balanced with carbon being absorbed…

What is a Carbon Credit? July 25, 2016 A Carbon Credit is a form of emission reduction that plays into the cap and trade programs. It places a monetary amount on emitted carbon through the form of a credit. In a cap and trade program, a limit is placed on the amount of carbon dioxide that can be emitted by companies. The allowanced amount of carbon given to emitting businesses is in the form of credit that represents one metric tonne of carbon. — Other…

What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)? July 25, 2016 Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is a technique to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through storing it underground. It has been popular in the energy sector, where fossil fuels are still used to create electricity, though industries like cement and steel production have also shown some attraction to it. In capturing and storing carbon, producers first separate CO2 from the gases emitted during production. The CO2 is then transported via pipeline or ship for safe…

What is a Cap and Trade System? July 25, 2016 A Cap and Trade System is a trading system that is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this system, a limit or cap is set on emissions and is then decreased by small amounts at a time. Companies that produce fewer emissions can sell off some of their emissions allowance to other businesses. During the 1980s, the United States reduced sulphur dioxide and nitrous oxide, the key ingredients in acid rain, by using these…

Nothing screams “summer” like a barbecue. The smell of good food cooking on the grill, the company of friends and family, and the long summer evenings spent are all characteristics that keep this gathering alive and well. Though there is nothing wrong with enjoying yourself and relishing in the good times, some of our actions at these events can take their toll on the environment.

It is important that, when we are celebrating during this warm season, we don’t forget about the environment, and we make some small effort to make sure that our get-togethers are also sustainable. Whether you’re with a small group or a big crowd, here are some ideas to make sure that one of the things you’re serving at your next barbecue is sustainability.