Monolith's Carbon Neutrality
The Carbon Neutrality of Monolith
For our second consecutive year we have partnered with Esurance and Native Energy to offset the carbon emissions resulting from the 2008 Monolith Festival. We have researched a number of Offset Organizations, and have found Native Energy to provide the greatest impact for our event and beliefs. There is much to be debated about Carbon Offsetting and how it is used as an “easy way out” alternative to a greater problem. There is some definite truth to the argument, but only if offsetting is your only means to become “sustainable.” The Monolith Festival prides itself on a diverse mix of practices that provides a foundation for building a “positive impact” event. You will see below a breakdown of exactly what our offset purchases are benefitting. This year we have offset over 240 short tons of Carbon Dioxide generated by the 2008 event. Included in this are on-site event emissions, as well as attendee and performing artist travel.
The purchase of our REC’s will directly benefit the Brubaker Family Farm Methane Project. The Brubaker Family farm is located in Mt. Joy, PA. This 800 cow family dairy farm is owned and operated by the Brubaker family headed by Michael Brubaker, and has been a family farm since 1929. The Monolith Festival’s REC purchase will help fund a farm methane digester generator, now in startup phase. The Brubaker family farm methane digester produces renewable energy, some of which is delivered to the local electric power grid. The digester also powers a portion of the farm's operations. Additionally, excess heat from the electric generator engine is used to heat the farm buildings, reducing the farm's fossil fuel use. Brubaker Farms is among the first to receive the Pennsylvania Environmental Agricultural Conservation Certification of Excellence. The farm received the National Environmental Stewardship Award in 1999 and a major livestock award in 2000.
The project is a good example of a working and successful farming operation that is a responsible steward of the environment, an active member of the local community, and able to co-exist in an area that is experiencing a growth in residential development.
Learn more:
Calculate Your Personal Carbon Emissions
Why Carbon Offsets?
How Offsets Work?
Treehugger.com’s Going Green Guides: Everything from gardening to your funeral!
MONOLITH FESTIVAL SUSTAINABILITY
