2. CARBON
FOOTPRINT
•A carbon footprint measures the total
amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted
directly and indirectly by an individual,
organization, event, or product. These
emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) and
other gases like methane, contribute to global
warming and climate change. The footprint is
often expressed in terms of CO2 equivalents
to allow for easier comparisons of different
activities
3. DAMAGE
OF
CO2
Carbon dioxide (CO2) can be
damaging to human health and the
environment. At high concentrations,
it can cause asphyxiation by
displacing oxygen, leading to
symptoms like headache, dizziness,
and in severe cases, death. Elevated
CO2 levels also contribute to global
warming and climate change,
causing a range of ecological
disruptions and societal impacts.
4. HEALTH IMPACTS
• Asphyxiation:
• CO2 is a simple asphyxiant, meaning it displaces oxygen in the air. This can
lead to oxygen deprivation and can be fatal if CO2 levels are high enough.
• Low-Level Effects:
• Even at lower concentrations, CO2 exposure can cause headaches,
dizziness, restlessness, and a tingling sensation.
• Other Health Problems:
• Increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and even coma can occur
with prolonged or high-level CO2 exposure.
• Skin Contact:
• Solid CO2 (dry ice) can cause frostbite if it comes into direct contact
with the skin.
• Cognitive Impairment:
• Exposure to CO2 can negatively impact cognitive function, including
decision-making and memory
•
5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
• CO2 is a major greenhouse gas, meaning it traps heat in the atmosphere,
leading to a warming effect.
• Global Warming and Climate Change:
• The increase in CO2 emissions has been linked to rising global temperatures,
melting glaciers and ice caps, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events.
• Ecological Disruption:
• Changes in temperature and other climate factors can disrupt ecosystems and
impact plant and animal life.
• Ocean Acidification:
• Excess CO2 in the atmosphere can be absorbed by the oceans, leading to
acidification and harming marine life.
7. ENERGY CONSUMPTION
This includes electricity use for
appliances, heating, and lighting, as
well as gas or other fuel consumption
for cooking, heating, and
transportation.
15. TRACKING AND MONITORING
•Keeping track of energy consumption, food
choices, transportation habits, and waste
disposal can help identify areas where you
can reduce emissions.
16. COMPARING WITH BENCHMARKS
•Research average household emissions in
your region or compared to other
households with similar lifestyles to gauge
your own impact
24. SUMMARY
By understanding the factors influencing
your household emissions and implementing
sustainable practices, you can significantly
reduce your weekly impact on the
environment.
