What's carbon got to do with it?
The 'carbon' in carbon footprint, refers to carbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gases in general (which are converted to carbon dioxide equivalents for convenience of calculation), that accumulate in the atmosphere and lead to global warming and climate change. We produce CO2 emissions, directly or indirectly, whenever we drive our cars, heat our homes, or in a hundred other ways as we go about our daily lives.
The primary cause of CO2 emissions is the burning of fossil fuels such as oil and coal, while deforestation for logging or farming is responsible for about a quarter of all emissions.
(source: Zerofootprint)
What is a carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint is the amount (in tons) of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere as a result of your day-to-day activities - from driving your car to eating a sandwich. Your carbon footprint, calculated in tonnes of CO2, will give you a measure of how much you contribute to global warming.
How does the Zerofootprint calculator work?
You'll be asked questions related to your lifestyle, divided into three sections: home, travel and food. Your answers will be used to calculate the impact, or carbon footprint, of your lifestyle choices. It'll take about 20 - 30 minutes, and you'll get tips along the way to help you reduce or shrink your footprint.
Why would I want to know my carbon footprint?
Knowing the size of your carbon footprint - and how your lifestyle choices affect it - is useful in the fight against climate change. You'll learn not only how much carbon you generate, but some of the ways you can shrink your footprint and save money at the same time. You win, and the environment wins!
What difference will it make?
If everyone's carbon footprint were reduced, we could slow climate change. We can all make a difference. The way forward is through knowledge: knowing how much carbon you and your lifestyle produce, and knowing exactly what you can do to shrink your carbon footprint. At toronto.zerofootprint.net you'll learn all this and more.
What happens to the information I provide at Zerofootprint Toronto?
The Zerofootprint Toronto website and carbon calculator is owned by Zerofootprint. When you register on the Zerofootprint Toronto website, you'll have an opportunity to read and accept their terms and conditions which includes their privacy policy. Please ensure you read and agree with the terms and conditions.
How do I get started?
- Go to Zerofootprint Toronto to register and get started.
- Customize the calculator to match your lifestyle.
- Answer simple questions related to travel, food and home to calculate your carbon footprint.
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