Counting Carbon
The average American emits 14,000 kg of carbon per year.
The Average global Individual emits 5,000 KG of Carbon Per Year.
We can do better.
Estimating your Carbon Footprint and Reduction Target
We are asking for a 10% reduction in carbon emissions as a target. This reduction should not be a sacrifice. But maybe 10% is not the right number for you. Let's figure that out now.
At a most basic level, your carbon footprint is a function of your household income. The more money you have, the more you consume and more consumption results in a higher carbon footprint.
On the right is a table estimating the daily kilogram reduction based on annual income and a commitment to a 10% reduction in emissions. This is not the most accurate way to assess your carbon footprint or set your reduction target, but it is the simplest. Pick your number and head over to Commit Now
If you want a more accurate estimation method, move on to the next section.
Tracking Your Carbon
Transportation is likely your largest source of emissions. This is where you will have the most impact.
Home emissions make up about 1/3 of your emissions. Track those Emissions!
Do I get more points if my recycle bin is full?
If you want to run the mile 10% faster, you have to know how fast you are now. The same is true for our energy use and energy reductions. You need a baseline measurement and then track changes. Yes, it might take an hour of your time but the planet is worth it!
There are three main contributors to your carbon footprint. Transportation, Home Energy, and General Consumption. These three short tutorials help you find your baseline. The fourth tutorial is estimating that baseline using a carbon calculator.
What is a Carbon Footprint? Help me calculate Mine!