In plain English
It means paying toward action that either reduces greenhouse gas emissions or removes greenhouse gases from the air. That payment is used to compensate for emissions linked to a journey or another activity.
In context
Here, "Carbon Offset" labels an optional payment intended to compensate for the emissions from the journey by paying for emissions reductions or for greenhouse gas removal.
- Situation
- Booking flights, choosing fares, seats, baggage, and optional services
- What it communicates
- labels an environmental add-on offered during booking.
Meaning limits
The term itself does not say how the amount is worked out or which specific reduction or removal the payment supports.
Examples
“When she booked the flight, she bought a carbon offset to pay for greenhouse gas reductions that would compensate for the trip's emissions.”
“Passengers could add a carbon offset before paying for the ferry crossing.”