Understanding Carbon Footprint
Carbon footprint measures the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by individual, event, organization, or product.
- Energy Usage Electricity: 0.92 lbs CO2/kWh (US avg). Natural gas: 11.7 lbs CO2/therm. Heating oil: 22.4 lbs CO2/gallon. Consider renewable energy credits.
- Transportation Car: 404g CO2/mile (avg). Bus: 140g CO2/passenger-mile. Train: 100g CO2/passenger-mile. Air travel: 200g CO2/passenger-mile (short haul).
- Waste Generation Landfill waste: 2.89 kg CO2e/kg waste. Recycling reduces emissions by 30-90% depending on material. Composting produces 50% less methane than landfill.
- Food Consumption Beef: 60 kg CO2e/kg. Chicken: 6 kg CO2e/kg. Plant-based diet reduces footprint by 50%. Local food reduces transport emissions by 10-30%.
Reduction Strategies
Home Efficiency
LED bulbs save 75% energy vs incandescent. Smart thermostats reduce HVAC energy by 10-15%. Energy Star appliances use 10-50% less energy.
Transportation Choices
Electric vehicles reduce emissions by 50%. Carpooling cuts per-person emissions by 50-75%. Regular maintenance improves fuel efficiency by 4%.
Waste Management
Recycling paper saves 17 trees and 380 gallons of oil per ton. Composting reduces methane emissions and creates natural fertilizer.
Lifestyle Changes
Reducing meat consumption by 50% cuts food carbon footprint by 40%. Using public transport reduces emissions by 45%. Remote work eliminates commute emissions.