Carbon footprint classes may focus on the impact that carbon dioxide has on the Earth, and the effect it has on the climate and plants. An instructor can provide information about alternative power sources that can help reduce carbon emissions, such as power from turbines, solar power and other alternative energy sources.
Classes on carbon footprints should include instructions for students on how to calculate their own footprint. Choices that people make, from the food that they consume to how much they travel affect their emissions. A carbon footprint calculation should include the number of people in the household, the type of household, state, and number of bedrooms. Students should answer questions about what efficiency methods have been incorporated into the home, such as lighting, Energy Star appliances, and hot water usage. The calculation should also include miles driven and flown per day or per year, consumption of organic food and meat, and recycling habits. This will help people determine their carbon emission results. As an alternative, students can also use a more traditional formula to calculate their carbon footprint, such as one provided by Forbes.
Classes on carbon footprint may focus on how to make a home or business more energy efficient. Carbon footprint classes can provide hands on experience in what to look for in appliances and windows, how to insulate a home or even vegetarian cooking classes.
A class on learning about carbon footprints will provide simple tips that a person or business can enact to reduce their emissions. Individuals may turn items off like DVD players, computers, televisions and lights when they are not in use. Turning down central heating, changing water heater settings, and adjusting the air conditioner thermostat can provide significant savings and reduce carbon footprint. Completing routine activities like filling your washing machine and dishwasher until it is full, as well as doing one weekly shopping trip will also improve your carbon footprint. Other tips include energy saving light bulbs, insulating hot water tanks, and installing insulation can also provide you with savings.