There are many limitations in trying to reduce my carbon footprint because I do not make many decisions in my house. If I had my own house and had the chance to reduce my carbon footprint, I would make many changes. First, I would change my lightbulbs to all be LED. LED lightbulbs for the most part, can be better for the environment because they contain less electricity and last longer than other lightbulbs. Next, I would make sure that if I a not using sources of light, I would turn them off so I am not wasting light/electricity. I would also try my hardest to limit the amount of time I spend in the shower and make sure I am not wasting any water either. In addition, I would take advantage of California weather and put solar panels on my roof. Solar panels would allow me to use natural energy from the sun. Lastly, I would try to find a location for my house near public transportation, and around areas where I could walk instead of drive.

Natalie, I understand where you are coming from although I think you can take some of these actions that you think you are not in control of.  For example, you could talk to your family about these issues and help them work towards solutions and improvements. Even though you think that you do not have the power to make a change, you have to understand that the few people that are educated about these kinds of environmental issues need to take the responsibility of educating others. You can still change your lightbulbs in your house if you discuss the benefits with your parents, such as that it saves money and power. Additionally, you can not only look to turn off lights you were using but also turn off lights in the whole house. These changes are small but achievable if the educated teach the uneducated.