Such reports may help ensure that IBM gets credit for early actions if Congress mandates carbon reductions. Still, critics point out that most U.S. businesses set relative — and not absolute — carbon-reduction targets. Typically, the goals are tied to key performance indicators, such as revenues or units sold. Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, for example, expresses its CO2 emissions in terms of thermal units per $1,000 of net sales. That's understandable, given that the coffee purveyor is growing at a 30 percent annual clip. But it's unclear what effect — if any — relative CO2 reductions will have on global warming. "I did suggest an absolute CO2 reduction once," says Paul Comey, vice president of environmental affairs at Green Mountain. "But our operations people nearly went into shock." — J.G.
To see "Accounting for Waste" — a list of entities providing greenhouse-gas credits, and reporting standards underpinning such offsets — click here.


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Reader CommentsDisplaying 3 of 3
Ajith Sankar
Jan 21, 2008 9:39 AM ET
What individuals can do on a daily basis?
Consuming only what we need is the most effective way to combat climate change. Here is an inititative through which we … more
Raman Rajagopal
Jan 11, 2008 6:16 AM ET
Paper used in office
I opine that the quantity of paper(printing & writting) for official use should also be considered while calculating … more
Louisa Nara
Jan 8, 2008 11:00 AM ET
Good Information
This article, though lengthy, provides good information and examples. It references several of the companies involved … more
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