Project Frequently Asked Questions

Below are set out some answers to questions that we are frequently asked about our projects and their delivery. To view questions and answers about who we are and what we do please visit our 'About Us' page.

1. Q. Why are some of the anticipated carbon savings so low?  A.  TICOS gives the actual annual savings we expect to see.  Many offset providers give figures with substantial projections into the future - sometimes up to 100 years.  We believe that as we face immediate problems from climate change we should give immediate savings and short term projections based upon the technology used.  All of our estimates are 'conservative' and may well be exceeded in real time.
2. Q. In many projects actual carbon savings are only a part of a much bigger project.  Why is this? A. TICOS believes that climate change benefits will only be permanent if they are a part of wider sustainable development.  Many projects help to enhance and protect natural sites and whilst we do not claim carbon benefits from this we believe that long term management of our natural habitats has significant benefits in helping to slow the rate of climate change.  This was also a conclusion at the recent Bali climate change conference.
3. Q. What other benefits come from supporting TICOS projects?  A.  These are many and varied.  For instance many have a strong educational theme which should lead to good practice elsewhere.  We will not win the long term battle against climate change without significant changes in behaviour and in our use of fossil based fuels.  Some projects create new jobs in developing economies and others will save money for low income families.  TICOS is constantly searching for projects which favour the environment, education, social and pro poor benefits whist at the same time reducing CO₂ emissions.
4. Q. Why is TICOS developing so many projects - far more than any other offsetting organisation?  A.  We work primarily with the tourism industry and this is a global industry.  Companies and their customers using our service have told us that they prefer to see the funds they raise going to projects in destinations of interest or for purposes with which they identify.  We are currently assessing projects in over 30 different countries.  
5. Q. How can I be sure that TICOS projects will achieve what you say they will?  A.  All TICOS projects available for funding have been through a rigorous assessment by three separate and independent assessors before being signed off by Dick Sisman on behalf ot TICOS.  TICOS works to the highest standards of due diligence and transparency and strong financial protection.  All projects will be continuously monitored and assessed and all benefits independently validated.  The new TICOS validation standard is extremely challenging and demanding.