Size Matters: Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
A carbon footprint is defined as “the total set of greenhouse gas emissions caused by an organization, event or person.” We use this calculator, provided free of charge by The Nature Conservancy. This calculation is factored by many different variables, including how you use energy in your home, how often you drive your car and if you put an effort into recycling materials. The great thing about The Nature Conservancy’s calculator is that they provide an option to give a donation that will offset your carbon footprint. By giving The Nature Conservancy a dollar amount that is equivalent to the amount of emissions that you are expending, their programs will help displace the same amount into energy saving carbon offsets.
The ability to calculate the negative impact that you can have on the environment allows you to take a step back and see what you can do to reduce it. If you choose not to donate to The Nature Conservancy you can do simple things such as:
- Invest in ENERGYSTAR appliances that automatically reduce energy output
- Reduce your use of hot water
- Eat organically
- Take care of your car by checking air filter and tire pressure each month
However you choose to help the planet is up to you! Post your carbon footprint on our Facebook or Twitter and make sure to tell us what you’re doing to reduce it!
