Carbon footprint
Carbon footprint
Carbon footprint (pronunciation: /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/) is a term used to describe the total amount of greenhouse gases produced to, directly and indirectly, support human activities. This is usually expressed in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).
Etymology
The term "carbon footprint" originated from the ecological footprint discussion. The concept of a "footprint" is meant to provide a visual representation of the amount of land and resources a single individual consumes. The "carbon" part of the term refers to the carbon dioxide emissions produced by burning fossil fuels.
Definition
A carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event or product. It is measured as the total amount of CO2 and CO2 equivalent emissions for a defined period.
Calculation
The calculation of a carbon footprint includes direct emissions, such as those that result from fossil-fuel combustion in manufacturing, heating, and transportation, as well as emissions required to produce the electricity associated with goods and services consumed. In addition, the calculation can also include the indirect emissions associated with the life cycle of products.
Related Terms
- Greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.
- Fossil fuels: Natural fuels such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
- Carbon dioxide: A colorless, odorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds and by respiration.
- Ecological footprint: A measure of human demand on the Earth's ecosystems.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Carbon footprint
- Wikipedia's article - Carbon footprint
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