Carbon Footprints Flashcards
UNIT 1
What is a carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint measures the total greenhouse gas emissions (mainly CO2, CH4, and N2O) associated with an activity or entity. Emissions are calculated in CO2 equivalents (CO2e) using the Global Warming Potential (GWP) to compare different gases. To calculate a carbon footprint, an inventory of gas emissions is taken, and an emissions reduction strategy can be implemented.
What are the types of carbon footprints?
1) Individual Carbon Footprint: Emissions based on personal consumption habits, including transportation, electricity, eating habits, etc.
2) Product Footprint: Emissions from raw material extraction, production, energy generation, usage, and waste treatment.
3) Corporate Footprint: Emissions inventory related to a company’s operations, used for identifying energy efficiency measures.
What are the scope of calculating carbon footprints?
Carbon footprint = Activity data x Emission factor. Emissions are classified into:
Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources.
Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased energy.
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions from activities not owned or controlled by the entity.
How to reduce carbon footprints?
1) Consume local seasonal products to reduce CO2 emissions from transportation.
2) Use high energy efficiency appliances to be more sustainable.
3) Use water and electricity efficiently to save energy and costs.
4) Use sustainable transportation options like public transport, bicycles, or electric scooters to reduce emissions.
What is the Global Warming Potential (GWP)?
Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a parameter that compares the heating power of a certain mass of a greenhouse gas with the heating power of the same amount of CO2. It helps to calculate the effect of different greenhouse gases using the same unit of measurement, called CO2 equivalent (CO2e).
How can using high energy efficiency appliances help reduce the carbon footprint?
High energy efficiency appliances are designed to use less energy for the same output, thereby reducing the overall consumption of electricity and fuel. This leads to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production and consumption, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Additionally, sustainable appliances often adhere to sustainability standards throughout their value chain, further minimizing environmental impact.
