GABRIOLA ISLAND, — New Society Publishers, an activist press focusing on sustainability issues, has become the first publisher in North America to become carbon neutral.

With the purchase of 213 metrics of carbon offsets, New Society Publishers (NSP) has neutralized the effect of the 213 tons of emissions that were released into the atmosphere during 2003 as a result of the publisher's use of paper, fuel, electricity, and garbage.

The company's 213 tons of emissions came from its use of paper (140 tons), flights and couriers (65 tons), trucking and vehicle travel (7 tons), fuel for heat and power (0.75 tons); and garbage (0.14 tons).

Half of the publisher's emissions were offset by a contribution to Tree Canada, which will plant 182 trees to absorb 106 tons of NSP’s emissions.

The other half (for 107 tons) was offset by a contribution to the Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF), based in Washington, D.C. SELF brings solar electric lighting to villagers in countries such as South Africa and Bhutan, replacing the use of kerosene, which is a dangerous and expensive carbon-producing fossil fuel.

"This is a great way to play our part, as we try to find ways to conduct our business in a more environmentally friendly manner," said Chris Plant, co-owner of NSP. "We see it is a fundamental component of being a socially responsible business and walking our talk."

NSP’s emissions analysis was done by climate specialist Guy Dauncey, author of Stormy Weather: 101 Solutions to Global Climate Change. Dauncey has also developed a guide called "Going Carbon Neutral -- A Guide for Publishers." The guide can be downloaded in PDF format online.