Small Steps, Big Impact: Reducing My Carbon Footprint

What I thought?

   👉 Never thinking much on my carbon footprint until I began understanding climate change, I am like many others. I previously believed that little things like driving to the supermarket or using plastic bags didn't count. Still, as I acquired more information on the environmental effects of everyday decisions, I saw that all I do adds toward the carbon emissions driving climate change. My activities have a far larger environmental impact than I first thought, from the food I consume to the gasoline in my vehicle.

What is carbon footprint?

   👉 A carbon footprint describes the total volume of greenhouse gases released into the air from human activities, mostly carbon dioxide. We are increasing our carbon footprint each time we drive a vehicle, use energy, or purchase items that need energy to be produced and transported. Even small things like buying food grown with harmful chemicals or using disposable products help. Beginning to notice how much my daily actions were adding to environmental issues, I started to focus on these minor issues.

The effect of carbon footprint:

👉Among the largest sources of carbon emissions are food production and transportation. EPA figures for 2020 show that cars by themselves generate almost 15% of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. Our diet also substantially influences our life. Most carbon-intensive sectors include especially beef, meat production. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), livestock farming contributes some 14. 5% to worldwide greenhouse gas levels (FAO, 2013). These greenhouse gas contribute to climate change, which causes extreme climate events, rising sea levels, and other environmental effects that impact all of us.

                                                                          

How to Lower Your Carbon Footprint?

👉Understanding how much my deeds were causing climate change, I have taken a few steps to lower my carbon output. One small adjustment I made was to walk or cycle rather of driving on quick excursions. I also begun using reusable containers, bottles, and bags to reduces my plastic output. I replaced old appliances with energy-efficient ones that consume less power around the house. I've also tried to cut my meat intake, especially beef, which has among the most environmental costs. Just a few little actions, but they really help me to reduce my influence on the world. A video I attached is very informative. 

"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it." — Robert Swan

Why it is important?

👉Not only does lowering our carbon footprints help to preserve the environment, but it also helps to boost public health and create a more sustainable society. Climate change is generating high temperatures, severe weather events, and other side effects that could damage both species and humans. Reducing our carbon footprints can help to slow down these consequences, protect habitats, and ease the pressure on natural resources. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) every act, however minor, can help to meet international efforts to solve climate change (UNFCCC, 2015).

Sum up                                                                                         

👉I see that lowering my carbon footprint is not about perfection as I think about the changes I have made; it is about being more aware of my decisions and their environmental consequences. The more we accept accountability for our behaviors, the more effectively we can defend the earth for the next generations. I urge you to ponder your own carbon footprint and weigh small, sustainable adjustments you can make in your daily life. Every little step counts, whether it is less meat eating, reduced plastic use, or walking rather than driving.