by Rebecca Walker — May 18, 2009 A new Web site, GreenShipping, helps companies offset the environmental impact of shipping through UPS, USPS and FedEx.
The Web site allows businesses to track shipments for pennies a package and accurately gauge the emissions that result. For example, a small package sent by air produces greater CO2 than a box of similar size sent by ground. With most tracking software, you see arrivals, but not necessarily the entire path. GreenShipping uses Google Maps, and is flush with transportation data (including weather issues).
Once the package is shipped, it calculates the CO2 generated by the shipment. Once the emissions have been calculated, GreenShipping works with a nonprofit to invest in wind energy by purchasing carbon offsets to counterbalance greenhouse gas production.
The Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s (BEF) Carbon Offsets have met environmental criteria endorsed by the Natural Resources Defense Council and others. BEF’s Carbon Offsets are also certified by Green-e, which certifies and verifies renewable energy and greenhouse gas mitigation products.
GreenShipping can get consumers and businesses alike to consolidate shipments. With carbon offset efforts like this, pressure may raise on shipping companies for greener initiatives, like hybrid/electric conversions and devices that reduce vehicle idling, says the company.
GreenShipping.com is a property of Green Ventures, Inc., a start-up incubator in Hood River, Oregon, that focuses on the adoption and use of green technology.
