Carbon Footprint

CARBON FOOTPRINT

Definition

It is the total amount of green house gases (including CO₂ and CH₄) that are generated (emitted) by our direct and indirect activities.

Individual carbon footprint

It is the sum total of their direct and indirect carbon emissions over the course of a year.

i.e., Smaller your carbon footprint : better for the future

Bigger your carbon footprint : Have bigger negative impact in environment

The average carbon footprint for a person in united state is 16 tons. Globally, the average is closer to 4 tones. To avoid 2°C rise in global temperatures, the average global carbon footprint per year needs to drop under 2 tons by 2050.

Fig. 6.2 Carbon Footprint

1. Sources of carbon footprint

(i) Climate change.

(ii) Natural process like volcanos.

(iii) Green house gases emitted from human activities.

(iv) Pollution released by human beings doing human things.

(v) Transportation accounted for about 28% of total country.

(vi) Electricity generation accounted for about 28%

(vii) Industrial activities 22%

(viii) Heating and cooling in homes and businesses contribute11%

2. How to lower carbon footprint (or) 15 ways to reduce your carbon footprint

Lowering individual carbon footprint from 16 tons to 2 tons does not happen over night. But, by making small changes in our action we can reduce carbon footprint.

Once you understand where your emission comes from, you can take steps to reduce your impact.

1. Calculate your carbon footprint.

2. Drive less,

3. Switch to an electric (or) hybrid car.

4. Travel smart.

5. Switch to renewable energy.

6. Consider solar panels.

7. Make your home more efficient.

8. Turn your thermostat just 2 degrees cooler in winter and 2 degrees warmer in summer.

9. Get energy efficient appliances.

10. Unplug electrical devices when not in use.

11. Buy locally - sourced food.

12. Start a home garden.

13. Eat less meat.

14. Don't waste water.

15. Reduce, reuse and recycle.