‘Carbon offsetting’ is a popular buzzword circulating within eco-conscious circles. However, few people know precisely what carbon offsetting is, or its impact on construction industries. In this blog post, we’ll explain how carbon offsetting functions within an Australian context and its implications for brick manufacturers. If you’re curious about why you might want to support companies that practice carbon offsetting, then be sure to read on.
What is carbon offsetting?
Carbon offsetting is a voluntary way for businesses to reduce their net emissions through funding projects that remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Carbon offsets can be used to reduce the environmental impacts of waste management, transport, travel, and manufacturing.
In Australia, carbon offsetting is facilitated through purchasing Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs). One ACCU represents one tonne of carbon dioxide that has been either abated or stored. The most common type of carbon offset is a project-based offset, such as renewable energy or forest conservation initiatives. Carbon neutral products are certified against the Australian Government’s National Carbon Offset Standard.
What are the benefits of carbon offsetting?
There are many benefits to carbon offsetting, including:
- Reducing emissions: Carbon offsetting can help you reduce your emissions if you cannot eliminate them. This is common in industries that specialise in manufacturing products that release emissions during the production process.
- Supporting projects that matter: Carbon offsetting funds projects making a difference. Common examples of such initiatives include creating renewable energy infrastructure and habitat restoration.
- Making a positive impact: Many carbon offset projects also provide other benefits such as employment, improved energy security, and poverty alleviation. Visit Climate Active to discover the social and cultural benefits of carbon offsetting.
- Flexibility and choice: There are a variety of carbon offset projects available, and companies can choose one that supports a cause they are passionate about.
- A global reach: Carbon offsetting helps to reduce emissions globally, not just in Australia.
What does carbon offsetting mean for the brick industry?
Composed from local clay, shale, and select minerals, bricks are an efficient and durable building material with a storied history. Innovations in manufacturing techniques have transformed bricks into a highly adaptable and visually versatile material valued by builders, designers, and architects. While bricks are longer-lasting and not as energy-intensive as other construction supplies such as cement, concrete, and plasterboard, carbon offsetting presents a valuable strategy for ecologically conscious brick manufacturers to support projects that preserve our planet.
Bricks that don’t cost the earth
At Littlehampton Bricks and Pavers, we recognise the need to operate sustainably. With a 344 solar panel array in place, our factory doesn’t rely on fossil fuels to power its operations- and it doesn’t end there.
We understand that in nature, nothing goes to waste. We have developed an innovative manufacturing process that ensures all brick cut-offs are recycled. We use reprocessed waste oil from sources such as local restaurants to produce quality hard-fired bricks that don’t just last for decades, but centuries. Excess heat from our kilns is also captured and used to dry bricks before they are deployed for firing. This commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness extends past the doors of our factory and to our delivery process. Our custom-built hardwood palettes are sturdy, reusable, and made to last.
Wrapping up
Carbon offsetting is an excellent way for businesses in the brick industry to reduce their emissions and support positive environmental projects. At Littlehampton Bricks and Pavers, we are committed to operating sustainably and work diligently towards achieving carbon zero.
If you’re interested in a sample of one of our bespoke series or would like to know more about our sustainable practices, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our friendly team will be more than happy to chat with you about how we can help you build a better future.