The world’s countries emit vastly different amounts of heat-trapping gases into the atmosphere. China, United States, India, Russia, and Japan were the top 5 highest annual carbon dioxide emitters in 2018. Developed countries and major emerging economy nations lead in total carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, students from these countries also emit a considerable amount of CO2. I think transportation is the main reason for this massive release. As an international student in the United States, I often fly from Russia to America, and because of this, my carbon footprint is more significant than I want it to be.
   For me, the most effective way to reduce my carbon footprint is to stop flying so often. Usually, I fly between America and Russia almost 5-6 times a year; if I reduce the number of flights to at least 3-4, it will significantly reduce the emission. Another option to lower emissions is to pay to Carbon Offset programs. Due to quarantine, my carbon footprint decreased significantly, and I also plan to reduce the number of flights next year.

I fly between India and the US once a year and we go on trips around the world often which contributes to my carbon footprint. I would like to reduce my carbon footprint by cutting down on the number of times that I fly with my family every year, but I can't stop going to India because I have to see my family. Due to quarantine this year my carbon footprint has decreased significantly because I haven't been able to travel with my family like we usually do.

I'm sure many people have cut down on their carbon emissions during this pandemic especially those who travel a lot. I have also never heard of the carbon offset programs, those may be a very good option to people who have no choice of traveling. My stepdad is a German immigrant and flies back and fourth annually to visit family, so an offsetting program may be worth looking into.