A big reason why our carbon footprint is high is due to us civilians who often forget ways to conserve our resources and limit the damage we do to the environment. One way to make people more aware of the damaging effects of carbon is to empower our leaders to support ideas and plans that attempt to tackle this global issue. We need to be able to realize for ourselves and create a plan to solve whatever aspect of nature we intend to save. For example, in my household, my mom and dad became empowered with the idea of helping the environment. Instead of using a tumble dryer on Saturdays, we air dry it in our backyard instead. Another way to lower our carbon footprint would be using skills we acquire. For example, composting is something my family and I picked up relatively recently, and now we do it weekly. Instead of using the air conditioning when hot, we open windows and turn on fans. This will astoundingly reduce carbon emissions because in one hour an AC unit can produce up to 3250 grams of carbon. In a larger population, incentives may work. For example, a family emi tting an x amount of carbon will receive a tax break or something of the sort. This will encourage families to reduce their carbon footprint, and in turn, help our environment.