Carbon footprint: learn how to calculate your environmental impact

Think about your normal school or work routine: you hear the alarm, turn it off, check your phone notifications, answer a few messages and are ready to start your day. You may not realise it, but in this series of routine steps you have already contributed a little bit to the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs), i.e. those that increase the Earth's temperature.

As you can see, the increase in greenhouse gas emissions is directly related to global warming. The use of mobile phones, smartphones and internet services impose environmental costs in terms of energy consumption during their production, use and even disposal.

In fact, although the largest volume of GHG emissions does not come from the day-to-day actions of the majority of the population, knowing our environmental impact is a tool in our favour to be part of changing awareness and taking action.

What is a carbon footprint?

The term carbon footprint refers to the amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by a person, product, company or organisation.

There are different types of carbon footprints, company, product and personal. The Personal Carbon Footprint aims to measure the environmental impact of an individual's activities. Its calculation allows you to reduce or optimise your energy consumption and change your personal consumption habits, thus minimising your impact on the planet.

How can you reduce your carbon footprint?

Reducing your carbon footprint by changing your consumption patterns is key to taking action for the climate. Tips for reducing carbon emissions include:

• Opt for a green energy supplier;

• Use greener modes of transport: swap your conventional car for an electric or hybrid vehicle;

• Buy energy efficient appliances, taking into account their energy label;

• Use LED light bulbs;

• Set heating and air-conditioning systems to an optimal temperature;

• Recycle waste correctly;

• Reduce meat consumption.

Calculator

To calculate your personal annual carbon footprint, take some of the following data into account:

Transport: daily trips (car, bus, metro or bicycle) and more exceptional trips, e.g. by plane or train.

House and energy: the type of dwelling (house, flat), its surface area, the number of people living together, the appliances used, the energy consumption generated, the type of heating used, etc.

Consumption and lifestyle: food, consumption, waste management, etc.

You can use this calculator to find out more about your carbon footprint 👉🏼 Carbon Footprint calculator