My carbon footprint was surprisingly high, however I feel there is good reason for that. Over the last year I did a large amount of traveling around the country because my family decided to take many trips. I only have so much control over where my family flies because most of those decisions are made by my parents, and I am forced to tag along with them. However, there are many things that I can do myself. I can carpool much more with friends, instead of us all taking separate cars to meet up, one person can pick up everyone and we can all go together. Also, creating a carpool for school would help reduce a few cars off the road every morning. I can convince my parents to buy more local foods, and to use more energy efficient lights and appliances within our house.

I too, took many flights this past year and therefore, my carbon footprint was very large. I am in a similar boat; I really cannot say no to any family trips. However, as you explained, Maxwell, there are other ways to lower my footprint other than skipping trips and going against my parent's wishes. Carpooling is a great way of reducing carbon emissions, as well as eating locally. By purchasing and consuming food grown locally, carbon emissions can be reduced by great amounts. Just think about all of the carbon released by the tools used to plant, grow, and harvest plants, as well as all the transportation it takes for this food to be taken to packaging plants, then to grocery stores, and then to your home. I am sure there are many more stops than just those three when food is being processed and made ready for consumers. So, ultimately, I think it is time I start to think more about my impact on the environment and ways I can reduce my carbon footprint.