There is no doubt that modern gadgets and tech make our life easier. Take for instance our mid-afternoon Nespresso which we brew at the flick of a switch. Then there’s more impressive technology such as computers and cars that have transformed our lives. Computers give us access to information instantly. Cars allow us to travel to far away places and explore the world or simply commute to work.
However, if we pause for a moment, we may realize this convenience comes with a cost that affects both the environment and economy. Whenever we turn on a light, watch television or drive to work, we’re using energy. Every time we use any of these devices, we consume energy.
To generate most of this energy, we burn fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil, and coal, which emit carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. CO2 is among the greenhouse gases that trap the sun’s heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming – raising temperatures across the world. While we may not always consider it, the use of such tech has an adverse impact on the environment.
In the last few years, the term “carbon footprint” has become a common way to describe the direct and indirect carbon emissions that individuals generate. Put simply, a person’s carbon footprint is a measure of how much CO2 someone produces while doing everyday things..
CO2 emissions are measured in pounds, and the average person in the US generates 20,750 pounds of emissions per year, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency [source: EPA].
While everyone’s emissions differ, it’s possible to minimize your technology carbon footprint. Many individuals are already taking steps towards reducing their carbon footprint, which not only decreases the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere but also results in economic benefits as energy costs are reduced.
What is an average carbon footprint?
The average CO2 emissions per person in Europe and the US varies depending on the country and the lifestyle of the individual. Factors such as energy consumption, transportation habits, and diet
However, according to the European Environment Agency, the average CO2 emissions per capita in the European Union in 2019 was approximately 7.5 metric tons per year, which is equivalent to approximately 16,535 pounds of CO2 emissions per year.
However, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average total greenhouse gas emissions per capita in the United States in 2019 was approximately 16.6 metric tons of CO2 equivalent per year, which is equivalent to approximately 36,603 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year.
It is important to note that this is an average and some individuals may generate more or less CO2 emissions depending on their lifestyle choices, such as transportation, diet, and energy consumption.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on CO2 emissions, with some countries seeing a reduction in emissions due to decreased economic activity and travel.
How to calculate your technology carbon footprint
To reduce your technology carbon footprint, it’s important to first determine the size of your overall carbon footprint. One way to do this is to collect your recent electric, gas, and oil bills to get a more accurate idea of your energy usage. This lets you looks at real numbers instead of estimates, either in dollars or in kilowatts per hour.
Additionally, you should consider how much you travel and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Gather estimates regarding how many miles you drive weekly or annually and the average gas mileage your vehicle gets.
Once you have these numbers, the easiest way to determine your technology carbon footprint is to use on online carbon calculator.
Online carbon calculators, such as the one from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can help you estimate your carbon footprint based on national averages and your personal data. These tools base their calculations on general estimates of average fuel economy, electricity usage and waste disposal in America.
It’s important to note that everyone’s carbon footprint will be different due to factors such as home size, location, and transportation needs. However, taking steps to reduce emissions can make a significant difference. So, what can you do to lower your carbon footprint?
How to decrease your carbon footprint at home
There are several simple steps you can take at home to start reducing your energy consumption and thereby your carbon footprint.
By turning off basic appliances and gadgets like lights, televisions, video game systems, and computers when they’re not in use, you can regulate your electricity usage more easily.
Appliances still consume energy (and money) when plugged in, so unplugging them or using a power strip with an on/off switch can help prevent this waste.
You can also switch to more energy-efficient technologies. The EPA recommends products with the Energy Star qualifications, especially for light bulbs and computers.
Further still, using green power or environmentally friendly electricity programs can significantly reduce both the amount of emissions you create and the amount of money you spend on energy.
You can contact your current power company to inquire about green power options, or use the EPA’s green power locator tool to find programs available in your state.
Installing more efficient technology and properly insulating your home are other changes you can make to reduce your carbon footprint.
