How to Calculate Your carbon Footprint

Every time we drive a car, flip a light switch, or buy groceries, we leave a trail behind us. This trail is invisible, but its impact is very real. It is called your Carbon Footprint.

Defining the Carbon Footprint

A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs)?primarily carbon dioxide and methane?that are generated by our individual actions. It is usually measured in tons of CO2 equivalent per year.

The global average is about 4 tons per person, while the US average is closer to 16 tons. To combat climate change, scientists estimate we need to get closer to 2 tons by 2050.

The Big Three Contributors

For most individuals, the bulk of emissions comes from three sectors:

1. Transportation: Cars and planes are fossil-fuel intensive. One round-trip flight from NY to London produces about the same emissions as a year of heating a home.
2. Energy Usage: Electricity and heating are major sources. A drafty home or inefficient appliances bleed energy and money.
3. Food: The beef industry is a massive methane producer. A vegetarian diet generally has half the carbon footprint of a meat-heavy one.

How to Reduce Your Impact

You don't have to live in a cave to make a difference. Small changes add up:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: In that order. Buying less stuff is the most effective step (production accounts for huge emissions).
• Switch to LEDs: LED bulbs use 80% less energy than incandescents.
• Eat Lower on the Chain: Implementing "Meatless Mondays" cuts emissions significantly.
• Drive Smart: Carpool, use public transit, or ensure your tires are properly inflated to improve gas mileage.

Carbon Offsetting

For emissions you can't eliminate, consider carbon offsets. These are contributions to projects that reduce CO2 elsewhere, such as planting trees or funding wind farms.

However, offsets should be a last resort after reduction efforts, not a license to pollute.

Conclusion

Calculating your footprint is the first step toward awareness. Use our Carbon Footprint Calculator to see where you stand, and challenge yourself to lower that number by 10% this year.