Offsetting search engine to debut next week

Green businesses and public sector bodies are being invited to help offset carbon emissions each time they search for a topic on the internet through a new search engine based on Google technology.

The new Click4Carbon web site is in beta and is set to officially launch next Tuesday, with the aim of using around half its after tax profits raised through search related adverts to fund carbon offsetting projects run by the Plant a Tree Foundation.

John Russell, who founded the company with his wife Claire, said that talks were underway with a number of businesses and public sector organisations, including schools and local councils, about them using the new site.

"We are talking about making Click4Carbon their entry point to the internet, " he said. "They can use it as their home page, or we can give them code to embed it in their intranet or web site, allowing them to help fund carbon reduction projects when they search."

A number of sites, such as Carbon Neutral Search, offer a similar service, but Claire Russell insisted that the new site would provide users with more than just search functionality, offering guidance on how to cut their carbon emissions, a carbon calculator and a forum where they can communicate with fellow users.

She added that the company would also look to diversify its portfolio of carbon offsetting projects and begin working with other offset providers besides the Plant a Tree Foundation.