This is the first of many interviews collected last week at the Green Living Show in Toronto.

In this interview I had an opportunity to discuss the carbon offset market with Bryce Conacher, the President of Clean Air Pass.

Clean Air Pass…

…brings people together in an emissions trading system that helps Canada meet its Kyoto protocol targets. Until all cars are emission free, cleanairpass is a way for you to make your car part of the solution. Based on the type of car you drive and how far you drive each year, cleanairpass will administrate the purchase of emission offsets on your behalf. The sticker on your vehicle lets people know your ride is on the program, and your payment for the offset credits and program administration will work for renewable energy and other projects that reduce air emissions.

Personally I have always been a little wary of the carbon offset market. It seems sort of like an easy out from taking real action to reduce your impact. Then again I suppose a world where those with large carbon footprints are willing to put some cash up to help mitigate their impact is better than one where they aren’t aware at all.

In my discussion with Bryce I was pleased to see that Clean Air Pass really supports the idea of reduction and conservation while at the same time offering carbon credits to those wishing to purchase them.

So give the conversation a listen yourself and see what you think…

Sounds Sustainable - Clean Air Pass interview (right click save as to download)