Everyone talks about your carbon footprint. But what is that? What does it mean to you?

​

I like the way 'carbon footprint' is described by Science.com:

​

A footprint is a mark you leave by walking. The way you live also leaves a mark. Many things we do in life, such as producing energy, driving cars and raising livestock, generate gases that contribute to climate change. And almost all of these gases are carbon compounds. That’s why the effect your life has on climate change is called your carbon footprint. Sometimes the way we affect climate change is obvious, such as driving cars. Sometimes it's not so obvious, such as eating meat.

​

So what's the big deal about carbon dioxide? Again, Science.com has a good explanation I'd like to share with you:

​

Carbon dioxide accumulates in the Earth's atmosphere, trapping solar heat energy and contributing to global warming. Many everyday activities, from driving to turning on a light, increase carbon dioxide emissions, which means you could be contributing to global warming without even knowing it. Fortunately, taking simple steps to cut your energy use can help to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet from the effects of greenhouse gases and climate change.

​

So, now let's talk about your carbon footprint!

​

When you're older, you'll be able to do more about reducing your carbon footprint. You'll be able to make choices about the kind of car your drive; whether to walk, bike or take public transportation rather than drive your car everywhere; the kind of energy you use for your home including renewable energy; and the kind of food you eat and whether you grow some of your own food.

Yet right now, you can still make choices about your daily routine that can help reduce your own carbon footprint. These choices can include reusing and recycling; whether you eat foods your prepare rather than fast food items and processed food; how you can reduce the amount of water you use; and when you have the option, you choose to walk or ride your bike.