You’ve probably heard the term Carbon Footprint once or twice. But what is it? Why is it important to us? What are WE supposed to do for it? Well today we’re going to discuss how it is relevant to us, and what it means in our everyday life.
So what is it?
A carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere because of our activities. In other words there are some activities we do that can seriously damage our planet! These include driving a car, turning on lights and eating certain foods such as dairy, all these factors play a part in how big our individual carbon footprint is.
So now that we know what it is, how is it relevant to us?
Well it’s simple, carbon emissions contributes to climate change, which effects the environment. Carbon emissions raise global temperatures, alters water supplies, weather patterns and sea levels, which are all important for our human condition! While we may not always see the effects, they are all around us.
But don’t worry! There are lots of ways to reduce your carbon footprint, such as:
- Trying alternative methods of transport. Rather than driving, when possible catch public transport, ride your bike or walk. Carpooling also helps! So grab a bunch of friends and family and ride together.
- Avoid traffic! Although this is inevitable, when it’s possible take an alternative route. Being stuck in traffic wastes gas creating unnecessary CO2.
- When buying new electrical appliances such as fridges and air conditioner, take energy efficiency into consideration by looking at their Energy Star label.
- Whenever you’re leaving a room turn off the lights! Sometimes we think that the 10 minutes in and out of a room can have no effect on the environment, but it sure does!
There are so many more ways for us to reduce our carbon footprint! So let’s do it together!
LiveTribers, we are sure that many of you have been doing some if not all these amazing things! Let us know what ways you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint? And what are some ways to make the process easier?