Have you ever wondered how your everyday choices impact the environment? Well, your carbon footprint is a good way to check! When greenhouse gasses and carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere, it is because of human activities. The carbon footprint is a way to measure the amount of gasses released and a great way to understand the impact of our actions.

The higher your carbon footprint, the more carbon dioxide and greenhouse gasses you as an individual are producing. So what are some ways to reduce this amount? One easy way to start is to change your transportation. To make even a small difference, you can try to travel by car less. Start carpooling, taking the bus, or riding your bike.

Another idea is to reduce your energy use. A lot of household items and appliances take up a lot of energy and produce more carbon in the environment. You can lower your thermostat in the winter and turn it up in the summer. Even a two-degree temperature difference will make an impact on your footprint.

Making the switch from gas-powered to electric or energy-efficient appliances can reduce emissions. One of the simplest things you can do is switch your lights off when it’s not needed, reduce the amount of water you use, and take shorter showers.

Using reusable products can help reduce your carbon footprint as well. At Starbucks, you can bring in your own reusable cup and get ten cents off of your order! When you go to the grocery store, use cotton or linen bags instead of plastic bags. Avoid unnecessary waste by using your own food containers or utensils. When products, like plastic, are thrown away they go to a landfill where they are disposed of. When they are being burnt and breaking down, natural gasses are released into the atmosphere.

Your everyday lifestyle and choices truly do impact the environment around you. If you want that environment to thrive, be clean, and be safe, you should adjust your actions to lower the amount of carbon dioxide released. Everyone should take steps towards a greener lifestyle and make a positive change to our environment!