What Do We Mean by Carbon

When people talk about carbon emissions and carbon footprints, they usually mean carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Carbon dioxide is released when we burn carbon-based fuels. Almost all fuels are carbon-based, including:

• petrol and diesel in our cars
• gas, oil and coal in our homes and power stations
• jet fuel in aeroplanes.

What is a Carbon Footprint?

Your carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide that enters the atmosphere because of the electricity and fuel you use. It's measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide. Knowing your carbon footprint helps you understand your impact on the environment - and, more importantly, find easy ways to reduce that impact.

How Can You Measure Your Carbon Footprint?

You can estimate your carbon footprint using the online calculator at the DirectGov website.

Find Out More

To find out more about carbon dioxide, and your carbon footprint please visit the energy saving trust carbon footprint webpage.

Details

Last Updated: Monday, 15 August 2016 09:29