User:Odunn23/Carbon footprint

Lead
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by our actions. The average carbon footprint for a person in the United States is 16 tons, one of the highest rates in the world.

Everyday life changes[edit]
Further information: Individual action on climate change

There are many simple changes that can be made to the everyday lifestyle of a person that would reduce their GHG footprint. Reducing energy consumption within a household can include lowering one's dependence on air conditioning and heating, using CFL light bulbs, choosing ENERGY STAR appliances, recycling, using cold water to wash clothes, avoiding a dryer and eating less meat. Another adjustment would be reducing reliance on motor vehicles which produce many GHGs due to which an adjustment to one's usage will greatly affect a GHG footprint. One can also lower their footprint by taking less connecting flights when traveling. While making these changes won't bring down one's carbon footprint overnight, it will make a huge difference long term.