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Carbon Footprint, Simplified

Updated: Jul 6, 2021

I talk about carbon footprints a lot on this website. Maybe some of you are not familiar with the term. So, I'm going to break it down as simply as possible.


Every decision you make every day comes with a carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is the greenhouse gas emissions caused by individual actions, businesses, and products.


One simple way to consider this is shopping for produce. If you purchase from a local vendor or farmer the carbon footprint is reduced significantly because the food is not shipped from across the country or even internationally before it reaches you. The more an item travels, the higher the carbon footprint created by that item. However, some companies, such as Etsy, provide carbon offsetting for each delivery made. When shopping make sure you are considering all of the options and supporting the most environmentally responsible companies.


In your home you can reduce your carbon footprint by saving electricity as possible. Shut off the lights when you leave a room, don't leave TV's and other electronics running when you are not using them, and select options which use less electricity, such as using a toaster oven or air fryer when possible instead of using your oven.


Other obvious decisions you make, such as what kind of car to drive (one which is more fuel efficient or more of a gas-guzzler), what source you use for electricity, etc. directly impact your personal carbon footprint. Options like biking or walking for your transport are good options for people who have shorter distances to shower and an infrastructure which supports these types of travel. Public transportation and carpooling are also great ways to reduce your carbon footprint. When planning errands, try to do them all at one time and make a list based on location. This will save you time and gas because you can do one after another based on the distance you need to travel. Try to pick locations close together when possible (i.e. pick a grocery store on the route of your other errands rather than driving to one further away).


The sum of all of these actions contributes to your personal carbon footprint.


It is possible to offset your carbon footprint by planting trees and other plants which remove carbon dioxide from the air. However, the best way to reduce your carbon footprint is by taking some of the steps outlined above. Be more conscientious with your everyday purchases and buy from local sources when possible. Use less electricity each day. Use less gasoline in your car.


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