University of Bristol
Wellcome Trust
Recommended by:
Society of Biology
PEEP for Physics & Ethics at GCSE
 

The Carbon
Express


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Station: Carbon Calculators

Question: How do I calculate my Carbon footprint?

 
CalculatorBackground

  • According to DEFRA figures, in 2003 Domestic uses accounted for 27% of the UK Carbon Dioxide emissions.   more detail
  • There are many different calculators you could use and you''ll need to try more than one.
  • Once you have calculated your CARBON footprint, choose the one that you feel best represents your ‘personal’ CARBON emissions.


Your first task

Have a look at a few calculators. Some are listed right.



Some Carbon Calculators:


Next

  1. Choose your calculator.
  2. Now use the data you found in MY EMISSIONS to calculate your carbon footprint for your home.
  3. If you are keen, visit the TRANSPORT STATION where you can include your own personal transport data.

Discussion points:

  1. Why did you choose that particular calculator?
  2. Do you think they all will give the same result (try it!)
  3. Is your carbon footprint below or above the average? Make your mind up by looking at some data at this site:
    • World Resource Institute
      You will have to register if you access more than 3 items – it is free and an excellent website for masses of environmental data.
    • If you really feel this matters, ask yourself:
      • Can I really make a difference?
      • Should everyone be made to reduce their emissions?
      • Should I be taxed on my Carbon emissions?
      • If so, who will make me do this?
      • What should this ‘Carbon tax’ money be used for?
      • If I do not reduce my Carbon footprint, what will happen in the future? You can get some ideas at the Crystal Ball and Who Cares stations.

Next Now travel to STATION: MY HOME, find out how to work out the CARBON emissions for your home and how you can reduce YOUR carbon emissions.