A carbon footprint is the measure of how an individual’s domestic and social activities are affecting the environment in terms of the amount of carbon dioxide or other carbon compounds emitted into the atmosphere. Everyone has the responsibility to reduce their individual carbon footprint, and there are lots of ways to do so.
It is easy to reduce the carbon footprint left by automobiles. It starts by driving appropriately, and keeping up on maintenance of the car. Studies have shown that there is up to a 30% difference in the miles per gallon due to driving habits alone. A few ways to save more than a ton of carbon per year include accelerating slowly and smoothly, driving the speed limit, maintaining a steady speed, and anticipating stops and starts. As far as maintenance goes, it is important to keep the car tuned and running efficiently. Also it is important to replace the air, oil and fuel filters as often as the vehicle needs. Keeping the tires properly inflated will also save up to 400-700 pounds of carbon per year. When buying a new vehicle, look for a fuel-efficient one!
Another way to reduce an individual’s carbon footprint is using different travel options. A lot of the emissions from traveling comes from inefficient modes of transportation. Combining trips with other people is a good way to cut down the amount of carbon used. A good example would be carpooling. Carpooling just once a week saves 20% of the carbon normally used. People can ride bicycles or use a mass transit system. If the destination is only a mile away how about walking? Think through all trips taken, if the trip is not necessary do not take it. Save the trip and combine with the next trip. Reducing the carbon footprint while traveling by air is simple. By purchasing electronic-tickets for airlines no paper is used. Also if the ticket gets lost, it may cause for a high fee to be charged in order to replace it. Flying nonstop is more