How to Calculate Carbon Footprint
What is Carbon Footprint?
A carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organisation, event, or product, expressed in tonnes of CO₂-equivalent (tCO₂e). The global average is ~4.7 tonnes per person per year; the UK average is ~5.5 tonnes; the US average is ~14 tonnes.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Identify emission sources: travel, home energy, diet, shopping, flights
- 2Apply emission factors (kg CO₂e per unit): e.g., petrol car ≈ 0.21 kg CO₂/km
- 3Sum all categories to get total annual emissions in tonnes CO₂e
- 4Flights are a major contributor: a return flight London–New York ≈ 1.7 tCO₂e
Worked Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carbon Footprint?
A carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organisation, event, or product, expressed in tonnes of CO₂-equivalent (tCO₂e). The global average is ~4
How accurate is the Carbon Footprint calculator?
The calculator uses the standard published formula for carbon footprint. Results are accurate to the precision of the inputs you provide. For financial, medical, or legal decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.
What units does the Carbon Footprint calculator use?
This calculator works with kilograms, inches, kilometres. You can enter values in the units shown — the calculator handles all conversions internally.
What formula does the Carbon Footprint calculator use?
The calculator applies the standard formula for this type of calculation. See the 'How It Works' steps above for the detailed formula breakdown.
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