Selling carbon indulgences

Posted on May 17, 2007
Filed Under Alternative Energy, Venture News |

Greeen Cab, a taxi company in San Francisco, and TerraPass, startup founded by former Expedia CEO Erik Blachford, what do they have in common? They are environmentally conscience businesses monetizing on “feel guilty” sentiment . Green Cab drives only hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles. Terrapass sells carbon offsets.

How does Terrapass work? You took flight about 6,000 miles. Your share of carbon dioxide emissions is 2,500 lbs. You feel guilty. You buy Flight TerraPass for $9.99. TerraPass promise to spend $9.99 on noble causes works miracles for your sensitive conscience and balances your karma.

It reminds me indulgence, which is the prepaid full or partial absolution of sins practized by Roman Catholic Church in 15th century. Selling induldences was flourishing business.

Erik Blachford takes no risks by picking up historically proven business model.

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One Response to “Selling carbon indulgences”

  1. Is Carbon Emissions Trading a good or bad idea? - Hypography Science Forums on May 20th, 2007 4:52 pm

    [...] business. Erik Blachford takes no risks by picking up historically proven business model. Selling carbon indulgences | Venture Itch m “May those who love us, love us; and those who don’t love us, may God turn their hearts; and [...]

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