Students from around the world calculated their class mean and standard deviations for their footprints and posted them on our world map.
Do you see differences across the globe? If so, why do you think those differences exist?
Did you use the calculator to try to reduce your footprint down to the average from a citizen of another country? What changes would you have to make to lower your footprint in this way? Are you going to try and take some of these actions in your daily life?
Student Footprints >
Reducing My Carbon Footprint
After completing the carbon-footprint calculator, I learned that my total footprint is 58,312 kg of CO₂ per year, which is significantly higher than both my regional average and the global sustainable goal of 1,000 kg per person. Most of my emissions come from the home and transportation categories, so these are the areas I want to focus on improving the most.
1. Reducing Home Energy Use
My home footprint was 46,969 kg, which is much higher than average. To reduce this, I plan to:
Use energy-efficient LED lightbulbs
Unplug electronics when I’m not using them
Wash clothes in cold water and air-dry when possible
Adjust my thermostat a few degrees to use less heating and cooling
Run full loads in the dishwasher and laundry
Resources like EnergyStar.gov and EPA.gov/energy offer helpful tips for lowering energy use.
2. Making More Sustainable Transportation Choices
Transportation was another major contributor at 8,798 kg. To help reduce this number, I want to:
Carpool with classmates or friends
Combine errands into one trip instead of multiple
Walk or bike for short distances
Consider using public transportation when available
The website SmartWay (epa.gov/smartway) provides guidance on cleaner transportation options.
3. Making Sustainable Food & Shopping Choices
My food emissions were 1,982 kg, and purchases were 563 kg. Even though these categories aren’t as high, there are still changes I can make:
Buying more local foods when possible
Eating fewer ultra-processed foods
Choosing secondhand clothing instead of fast fashion
Avoiding unnecessary impulse purchases
Websites like EatLowerCarbon.org and GoodOnYou.eco offer great tools for choosing more sustainable food and clothing options.
4. Becoming More Aware of My Daily Habits
One big takeaway from my results is that small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference. I plan to keep tracking my habits and make gradual shifts toward sustainability. The United Nations ActNow Climate Campaign (un.org/actnow) has simple, everyday ideas anyone can start using immediately.
Overall, this footprint calculator helped me see exactly where my impact is highest and how I can take practical steps to reduce it. I’m committed to making changes that not only lower my own footprint but also support a healthier planet for the future.