carbon foot print

1. Understanding Carbon
Footprint

2. • Definition: Carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (primarily CO2) emitted
directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. It's a measure of our
impact on the environment.
• Emphasize the significance of this concept in today's world. The growing concern for climate
change and global efforts to mitigate it make understanding carbon footprints crucial.
• Carbon footprint includes emissions from activities like energy consumption, transportation,
production, and waste.
• Importance of measuring carbon footprint: Understanding environmental impact: By
quantifying emissions, we can grasp how our actions affect the environment.
• Relevance in today's world: Growing concern for climate change: The rise in global
temperatures and its consequences necessitate action to reduce carbon footprints.

3. Origin of carbon foot print
The concept and name of the carbon footprint derive from
the ecological
footprint concept,[18] which was developed by William E.
Rees and Mathis
Wackernagel in the 1990s. While carbon footprints are
usually reported in tons of
emissions (CO2-equivalent) per year, ecological footprints
are usually reported in
comparison to what the planet can renew.
The carbon footprint is one part of the
ecological footprint

4. Types of Greenhouse Gases
Greenhouse gases, including CO2, methane (CH4), and
nitrous oxide (N2O), contribute to the greenhouse effect
and global warming. These gases originate from various
sectors, with CO2 primarily from energy and CH4 from
agriculture and waste.
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Perfluorocarbon (PFCs)
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)

5. Sources of Carbon Emissions
 Fossil Fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas contribute to carbon emissions. These fossil fuels are
burned for energy, releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere. They have been the primary energy sources for decades due to their availability
and energy density.
• Transportation: Cars, planes, and shipping are common modes of transportation that rely on
fossil fuels and are a major contributor to emissions due to fuel combustion.
• Energy Production: Power plants, especially those using coal and natural gas, release
significant CO2 emissions. These emissions result from burning fossil fuels to generate
electricity.
• Agriculture: Livestock emit methane (a potent greenhouse gas) during digestion. Land use
changes, such as deforestation for agriculture, release stored carbon.
• Deforestation: When trees are cut down or forests are cleared, the stored carbon is released
into the atmosphere as CO2.
Deforestation also reduces the planet's ability to absorb CO2, compounding the problem.

6. Global Carbon Emissions
On a global scale, carbon emissions have been rising
steadily. From 22.6 billion metric tons in 1990, we've
surpassed 36.4 billion metric tons in 2019. This is a matter
of grave concern, considering the implications for global
warming.

7. Measuring Carbon Footprint - Calculation Methods
By calculating our carbon footprint, we can better
understand our impact. Online calculators and tools
enable us to quantify emissions and measure them
in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) to account for
varying greenhouse gases' global warming
potentials.
Carbon accounting involves calculating, recording, and
reporting emissions from various activities.
It's a systematic approach used by businesses and
governments to monitor their carbon footprints.
To better understand our impact, we need to know how to calculate
our carbon footprint. This involves quantifying emissions from
activities like energy consumption, transportation, and waste
generation. We often measure these emissions in carbon dioxide
equivalents (CO2e) to account for the varying global warming
potentials of different gases.
Chandigarh became the first state or Union

8. Carbon footprints are usually measured in equivalent tons of
carbon dioxide – CO2e, during the period of a year.
CO2e is calculated by multiplying the emissions of each of the
six greenhouse gases by its 100year global warming potential
(GWP).
On comparing various forms of energy generation Coal has the
largest Carbon footprint amongothers followed by Oil, Natural Gas
and Geothermal Energy.

9. Carbon Watch
The Carbon Watch App focuses on individuals’ actions and
calculates carbon footprint on thebasis of Transport, Energy,
Waste and Water consumption.
It the app can be accessed by anybody
The App Carbon Watch will provide information about the
individual’s level of emission generationas well as the national
and world average of the emission.
It will sensitize people about their lifestyle emissions, their
impact and possible countermeasuresto mitigate the same.
The purpose behind the Carbon Watch application is to make the
people Climate-Smart Citizenswho are capable of accessing their
carbon footprint, along with providing them with steps toreduce
the emission.
The Carbon Watch app will suggest ways to reduce carbon
footprints as per the informationfurnished by the individuals.

10. Carbon footprints have paramount effects on climate change.
Emission of Greenhouse Gasses in theatmosphere leads to warming
of the planet.
According to World Meteorological Organization (WMO) records,
2011-2020 was the warmestdecade on record, in a persistent long-
term climate change trend.
From 1990 to 2005, the emissions of carbon dioxide increased by
31%. By 2008, the emissionshad contributed to a 35% increase in
radiative warming, or a shift in Earth’s energy balancetoward
warming, over 1990 levels.

11. Steps to Lessen Carbon Footprints
The average carbon footprint globally is closer to 4 tons. It needs to drop under 2 tons by 2050 in orderto avoid the chance of 2 degree celsius rise in the Global Temperature.
Switching one’s energy and transportation use can have an impact on primary carbon
footprints.Replacing regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamp – CFL
A ton of carbon dioxide is released when we for example travel 5000 miles in an
airplane or drive2,500 miles in a medium – sized car, henceAvoid taking connecting
flights
Take public transport or drive a more efficient vehicle.
Walk or use bicycles instead of using bikes, cars, etc.
Switching from coal to a less carbon-intensive energy source.
Planting more trees.
3. 4. 5.

12. Initiatives/ Concepts to Keep Check on GHGs Emission
1. Carbon Pricing : A carbon price is a cost put oncarbon pollution to nudge polluters to lower the amount of greenhouse gas they release into theatmosphere.
2. Carbon Tax – It is a form of Pollution Tax. It levies afee on the production, distribution or use of fossil fuels based on how much carbon theircombustion emits. It is a cost-
effective tool to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in theatmosphere.
3. Carbon Sequestration – the process ofcapturing waste carbon dioxide (CO2) from large point sources, such as fossil fuel power plants,etc. and depositing it where it will not
enter the atmosphere.
4. Paris Agreement COP 21– According to the Paris Climate Accord, the members who ratified the deal have to work towards the goal ofachieving net-zero emissions, which is
crucial to limit global warming. This scenario, calls for rapidscale-up of carbon capture, use and storage (CCUS). The process involves capturing CO2emissions from coal and
gas power plants, and from heavy industry, for deep undergroundstorage or re-use.
5. Montreal Protocol – The protocol givesprovisions to reduce the production and consumption of Ozone Depleting Substances – ODSs toprotect the ozone layer.
6. Bharat Stage (BS) VI norms :These are emission control standards put in place by the government to keep a check on airpollution.
7. National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy 2018 : The main objective of the policy isto provide a framework for the promotion of large grid-connected wind-solar photovoltaic
(PV)hybrid systems for optimal and efficient utilization of wind and solar resources, transmissioninfrastructure and land.
8. National Solar Mission : It is a majorinitiative of the Government of India and State Governments to promote ecologically sustainablegrowth while addressing India’s energy
security challenge.
9. National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) – launched in 2011 NMEEE is mission to strengthen the market for energy efficiency by creating favourable
policies andregulations.
10. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) – launched in June 2008 aimed to have a combined policy for tackling climate change.

13. : Personal & Corporate Carbon Footprint
Now, let's bring this closer to home. The average
American's annual carbon footprint is around 16.6 metric
tons of CO2e. That's a significant number, but it
underscores the importance of assessing our own carbon
footprints using online calculators and tools.
Corporations can have carbon footprints equivalent to
small countries. Large businesses play a crucial role in
addressing climate change, and many of them disclose
their carbon emissions and reduction efforts in annual
sustainability reports.

14. Impact of Carbon Footprint - Climate Change
Carbon emissions trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to
global warming. This warming drives climate change, with
severe consequences for ecosystems and societies.
Global warming leads to the melting of ice caps and glaciers. As
ice melts, sea levels rise, increasing the risk of coastal flooding.
Climate change disrupts ecosystems, leading to shifts in species
distribution and potential extinctions.
Higher levels of greenhouse gases often lead to poor air quality.
This can result in respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases,
and heat-related illnesses.

15. Reducing Carbon Footprint - Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient technologies and behaviors reduce energy
consumption. Lower energy use translates to fewer carbon
emissions.
Renewable energy such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power
as clean energy sources generate electricity with minimal or no
carbon emissions. They represent a sustainable alternative to
fossil fuels.
Promote public transit, electric vehicles, and biking as
alternatives to traditional cars. These modes of transportation
produce fewer emissions or use cleaner energy sources.
Highlight their benefits in reducing congestion and air
pollution.
Zero waste aims to minimize waste generation and maximize
recycling and composting. It reduces the carbon footprint
associated with waste management.
Carbon offset projects, like reforestation and renewable energy
initiatives, reduce emissions elsewhere to compensate for
unavoidable emissions. Individuals and organizations can
participate in these projects to balance their carbon footprint.

16. Corporate Responsibility - Business Impact
Sustainability practices can lead to cost savings, increased
customer loyalty, and a positive brand image. CSR includes
ethical and sustainable business practices that consider social
and environmental impacts. It reflects a company's
commitment to addressing broader societal issues.
Include real-world examples of companies reducing their
carbon footprint:
Showcase companies from various industries that have
successfully implemented sustainable practices. Highlight
specific strategies and their positive outcomes.

17. Government Initiatives - International Agreements
 Paris Agreement Commitments: Explain specific
commitments made by countries under the Paris
Agreement, such as emissions reduction targets.
 National Carbon Pricing: Explore the various carbon
pricing mechanisms in different countries, such as
carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems.
 Incentive Programs: Highlight government incentives
like feed-in tariffs and tax credits that drive the
adoption of renewable energy sources.
 Grid Integration: Explain how renewable energy
sources are integrated into national grids to reduce
carbon emissions.
 Government Funding: Discuss government investments
in research and development of clean energy
technologies.
 Public-Private Partnerships: Highlight collaborative
efforts between governments and private sector
companies to advance clean energy solutions.

18. Individual Actions - Energy Conservation
 Smart Homes: Describe the concept of smart homes that optimize energy usage through automation and
energy-efficient appliances.
 Energy Labeling: Explain energy labels and how they guide consumers to make more informed choices.
 EV Infrastructure: Discuss the growth of electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and their role in promoting
sustainable transportation.
 Public Transport Revitalization: Share examples of cities investing in public transport improvements to reduce
carbon emissions.
 Local Food Movements: Explore the benefits of supporting local food production to reduce the carbon
footprint of food supply chains.
 Carpooling and Ride-Sharing: carpooling and ride-sharing helps in reducing the number of vehicles on the road
and lowering emissions.
 Active Transportation: Promote walking and biking as eco-friendly modes of transportation that also improve
personal health.

19. Education and Awareness
Raising awareness and educating individuals are
fundamental steps in achieving meaningful change.
Informed individuals are more likely to adopt sustainable
practices.

20. Sustainable Architecture: Discuss sustainable building design and materials that minimize the carbon footprint
of structures.
 Food – Take to rescue surplus food and redistribute it to those in need.
 Electronics: Take initiative for recycling of electronic waste to recover valuable materials and reduce emissions.
 Water: Encourage water-saving behaviors such as fixing leaks and using water-efficient appliances.
 Carbon Footprint of Arts - • Recycled Art Materials: Encourage artists to use recycled and sustainable materials in
their creative endeavors.
 Slide 40: Carbon Footprint of Film and Entertainment - Showcase film festivals that prioritize sustainability in their
operations.
 Slide 41: Carbon Footprint of Religious Institutions -Emphasize the connection between religious teachings and
responsible environmental behaviour.
 Slide 42: Carbon Footprint of Human Migration - ensure that climate refugees are welcomed and supported in
sustainable ways.
 Emphasize the importance of reducing plastic pollution to prevent microplastic formation.
 Encourage individuals to engage with policymakers to prioritize carbon emissions reduction.
Musicians for Climate Action: Showcase artists using their platform to advocate for climate action.
 Slide 54: Carbon Footprint of Artificial Photosynthesis: Highlight the potential of artificial photosynthesis for
generating clean fuels.
 Slide 55: Carbon Footprint of Forest Conservation: preserving existing forests to maintain their carbon-storing
capacity.
 Slide 59: Carbon Footprint of Geothermal Energy - geothermal heat pumps can be used in homes to reduce
emissions.