CO2-neutrality describes a material or product having a net zero carbon footprint. The amount of carbon released is balanced out by an equivalent amount, either sequestered of offset, or by purchasing sufficient carbon credits to make up the difference. The latter option is not permissible when communicating Life Cycle Assessments or carbon footprints regarding a material or product (according to ISO 14067). Most products do not attain carbon -neutrality when their complete life cycle is considered. However, if an assessment of a material is conducted (cradle to gate), carbon neutrality can be valid claim in a business-to-business context. Yet, if the “material carbon footprint” (Cradle to gate) is negative, the resulting product may even attain CO2 -neutrality. (European Bioplastics)
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