Calculating your carbon footprint is not as difficult as it sounds. All you need to do is fill out the carbon emissions calculator available on this website. We do all the hard work for you. Before you start, it would be wise to gather some materials.

First count the number of vehicles your family uses. Then estimate how many miles per week you drive each vehicle. You will also need to know what kind of mileage these vehicles get. If you don't know, check out this website to get an estimation.

Next we need to know how much energy your home uses. We include electricity in the equation because it is directly related to fossil fuel use. Some homeowners may use different fossil fuels to heat their homes such as natural gas and propane. To get the best idea of what your carbon output is you need to gather past utility bills. You will need your electric, natural gas, fuel oil, and propane statements. Circle the amount of energy or fuel used in the last month.

When you have all your information please visit our Carbon Footprint Calculator.

Now if the final number frightens you, don't worry. If you continue to the next section of the calculator, it will show you how to reduce your output.

There are many ways to help reduce your vehicle related carbon emissions. The easiest way to lower emissions is to drive less. Consider taking the bus to work or school. If your destination isn't too far, consider walking or riding a bike. These methods are good for you and the environment. If you need to drive, there are still a few options to help with emissions. Keep your vehicle well maintained. You can increase your gas mileage by keeping your tires properly inflated and by having a clean air filter. If you are in the market for a new car, consider buying a "green vehicle." These vehicles will get better gas mileage and have fewer emissions.

Our houses are big energy users (and wasters) so there are many things you can do to help reduce energy usage. Turning down the thermostat in the winter can save you money on your bills and improve your carbon footprint. Put on an extra sweater and wooly socks and you won't even notice the difference until you get your next bill. The opposite works in your emissions favor in the warmer months. In the summer consider raising the thermostat and using the air conditioner less. Open the windows and the let fresh breeze in instead.

You can adapt some chores in your home to make them more energy efficient. Save the energy that it takes to make hot water by washing your clothes in cold water. This will save you money and will help preserve your clothes longer. You can even purchase special cold water detergent if you are worried about cleanliness. Also consider skipping the drier and use a drying rack or clothesline instead. This is an easy way to cut down on energy use.

A few other ideas to cut down on energy use include replacing incandescent bulbs, old inefficient appliances, and single pane windows.

If you haven't started recycling, consider it. This can help negate some of the carbon your other activities produce. Recycling will also lighten your garbage bill and some facilities will even purchase some types of recyclables from you.