Like a footprint made on a sandy beach, a carbon footprint is an impression made on the Earth system by human activity. A carbon footprint refers to the carbon dioxide emissions produced (mainly by the combustion of fossil fuels) by an individual's lifestyle choices. Businesses also have carbon footprints - equal to the emissions generated by daily operations or by bringing a product to market. The first step to reducing your carbon footprint is to find out just how big an imprint you're leaving behind. Once you determine the size of your footprint, click the Take Action button to learn some easy ways to curb your carbon consumption and usually save money in the long run.
Various versions of "carbon footprint" calculators are available online. Below are links to a few of the better ones: