What is Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint refers to the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases that an individual, an organisation or a product emits directly or indirectly into the atmosphere. This calculation plays an important role in combating climate change because it contributes to the development of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon footprint is analysed in two categories as primary and secondary. The primary carbon footprint represents emissions that are under the direct control of the individual. This includes the type and amount of energy used, consumption habits, dietary habits and transport preferences and forms the basis of the primary carbon footprint calculation.

The secondary carbon footprint represents indirect emissions from the production of products, services and food to their destruction. For example, since the use of plastic bags is an individually controllable action, this is part of the primary carbon footprint. However, the emissions released into the atmosphere from the production of the plastic bag to the period of use are calculated as a secondary carbon footprint.