SWANA Takes Steps To Offset Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) is the first solid waste related professional association to join the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX). As part of its commitment to the environment, SWANA joined CCX to offset the greenhouse gas emissions created by their use of the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for WASTECON 2007, as well as staff travel and lodging during the event.

SWANA purchased carbon offset credits through CCX from Lancaster County Solid Waste Authority’s Landfill Gas Projects. This transaction was made possible by a contribution from CDM, Inc.

“We are proud of our efforts to offset greenhouse gas emissions from our meetings and conferences and being the first association to join the Chicago Climate Exchange,” said John Skinner, SWANA Executive Director and CEO.  “I think it is especially fitting that we are accomplishing this through the use of offsets from one of our member’s landfill gas projects. We intend to continue to purchase offset credits for all of our 2008 events.”

About CCX:

CCX’s goals include facilitating the transaction of GHG allowance trading with price transparency, environmental integrity and design excellence. They aim to build the skills and institutions needed to manage GHGs, strengthen intellectual framework needed for cost effective and valid GHG reduction. CCX helps keep the public informed on managing the risk of global climate change. CCX members gain recognition for taking early, credible and binding action to address climate change.

CCX is a U.S. corporation and remains the only emissions reduction and trading system for all six greenhouse gases, as well as the only operational emissions reduction and trading system in North America. The organization was founded in 2000 with a grant from the Joyce Foundation; a leading philanthropy based in Chicago known for its innovative approach to public policy issues and launched operations in 2003. In 2005, CCX introduced the European Climate Exchange (ECX); now the leading exchange for the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme.