A carbon offset credit is a unit of measurement representing the reduction, avoidance, or removal of one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO2) or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. These credits are typically generated by projects or activities that either reduce greenhouse gas emissions or remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Organizations or individuals can purchase carbon offset credits to compensate for their own greenhouse gas emissions that cannot be reduced directly. For example, a company might buy carbon offsets to mitigate the emissions from their operations, travel, or manufacturing processes that cannot be eliminated immediately. By purchasing offsets, they effectively support projects that reduce emissions elsewhere, thereby achieving carbon neutrality or offsetting their carbon footprint.