What is a Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds we produce as individuals, groups, etc., due to consumption of fossil fuels. The greater your carbon footprint is the more affect you have on our planet.

Carbon dioxide is released when we burn carbon based fuels such as:

• Petrol and diesel- from our cars
• Gas, oil and coal- from our homes and power plants
• Jet fuel- from airplanes

How long is Carbon dioxides lifetime?

Carbon dioxide is not destroyed over time, instead it moves amount different parts of the ocean, atmosphere and land system. Some excess carbon dioxide will be absorbed by the ocean surface but some will remain in the atmosphere for thousands of years because the process by which carbon is transferred to ocean sediments is very slow.

Watch this 2 minute video explaining carbon footprint.

Why is it important to be aware of your carbon footprint?

We all indirectly and directly impact our environment. A direct impact can be your day-to-day transportation and use of electricity in your home. While an indirect impact can be how far did the fruit you bought at the grocery store travel before it was consumed.

It's great to know just how much a simple choice in your daily life can impact our planet. The more you know the more you can grow.

How can we reduce our personal carbon footprint?

• Opt for riding your bike or walking when possible
• Reduce the amount of trash you use
• Recycle anything that can be recycled
• Use renewable energy sources
• Conserve electricity and heating
• Use energy efficient appliances, Energy Star appliances
• Conserve water; shorter showers!
• Buy locally made products
• Vacation closer to home
• Proper insulation for your home
• Plant trees!

Carbon Footprint Calculators

The Nature Conservancy's - estimates how many tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse  gases your choices create each  year.

EPA Waste Reduction Model  (WARM) - helps solid waste planners and organizations track and voluntarily report greenhouse gas emissions reductions and energy savings from several different waste management practices.

EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator - This calculator may be useful in communicating your greenhouse gas reduction strategy, reduction targets, or other initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

My Footprint - estimates the amount of land and ocean area required to sustain your consumption patterns and absorb your wastes on an annual basis.

Paper Calculator - premier tool for measuring the environmental impacts of paper and discovering the best paper choices