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 >
My carbon footprint1
My carbon usage is 46665 kg per year, that is way higher than the average usage of people in China, and even the usage worldwide. I feel so shocked of my result, because I haven't imagine that I may use so much carbon in a year. I realise that I have waste so many resources and that worries me a lot. I feel so guilty now, and I think I need to change it. I should start changing it by walking or biking more often, and also recycle or reuse anything if I can. I believe that I can use less carbon and making the earth greener by doing these things.
What is the average carbon usage in your area? My carbon footprint was 26,742 kgs of CO2 per year. That is compared to the regional average of 17,807 kgs in the United States. I was really shocked as well when I got my results. My largest was food. I must say that I do have a healthy appetite for meat and carbs. I was told by my doctor that I needed to change my appetite and cut down on certain foods. The idea of walking and riding bike sounds like a great idea. I thought about that myself, since the college I attend is less than five miles from my home. I just have make it happen. I am also very good about recycling but could improve on reusing certain products. Don't feel guilty....just think of it has something to improve on every day you walk out the door. Thanks for your information.
Hello Renee! Your carbon footprint is honestly really cool to think about. Comparing to mine (13,643 kg), yours was significantly high. I'm very surprised by this. What was the average carbon footprint in your region? In my region (North Carolina, USA), the average was 15,918 kg. What was your major carbon usage category? Most of it (in my region) came from home usage (6,149 kg). My carbon footprint was mostly the use of transportation (9,114 kg). Don't feel too guilty, those are also great conservation ideas! One thing I would like to do is walk some days to school instead of drive, considering my school is about a mile away from my house. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Renee. Your carbon footprint is pretty high compared to mine (13,194 kg). What is the average for your region? I think it's great that you want to lower your footprint and I hope to do the same to lower mine.