Analysis of Carbon Offsets

For over a decade now companies and individuals have been taking action to go 'carbon neutral,' or 'offset' their greenhouse gas emissions. However, carbon offsets are still an extremely contentious issue in the conservation community. Whether additional emissions reductions are achieved through existing offset offerings is an open question. It is also unclear what role offsets could play in the context of a cap and trade regime, and whether they could be incorporated into a compliance framework. This internship will research case studies where WWF has been involved in 'offsetting,' review the literature for current thinking on offsets, and suggest new models for offsets to be incorporated into a climate change regulatory framework and new models for how WWF should engage on this issue; this synthesized information will be presented in a paper to be submitted for peer-review and used for other policy analysis. Requirements: degree in a social science; knowledge of climate change science and policy; and an interest in biodiversity conservation.

Stipend: Modest stipend

Due date for CV and cover letter: April 1, 2008

Contact: Keya Chatterjee (keya.chatterjee@wwfus.org)