Reducing Carbon Footprint- A Health Perspective Our carbon footprint is the measure of the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases we emit into the atmosphere on a day to day basis. It is measured in units of CO2 and usually expressed in kilograms or tonnes. According to World Health Organization (WHO), 2 tonnes per year, per person is recommended to prevent global warming, and to protect human health from climate change. The average however is 4 tonnes per person. The activities that cause these emissions are either related to our individual activities or to services provided to or on behalf of us.

Averages by Country: USA-20 tonnes per person Canada-23 tonnes UK-10 per person China- 3 per person India-1.2 per person

Important Greenhouse Gases: Carbon dioxide Methane Water vapor Ozone

When CO2 accumulates in the atmosphere, it prevents excess heat from escaping into space contributing to global warming. Emissions in the last ten years have been the highest ever. These changes are due mainly to human activities such as burning of fossil fuels. This has triggered a global public health concern and a call to protect human health from climate change.

According to a series of reports on climate change, published by WHO, there are key characteristics of the health risks of global warming. The health risks are greatest in the poorest countries that contribute least to greenhouse gas emissions. Industrialized countries contribute most to the problems through their use of transport, energy, water, their dietary choices and waste management.

The impacts of climate change on health are huge but avoidable. Disease such as malaria, diarrhea and protein-energy malnutrition take 3 million lives annually. These diseases are highly sensitive to climatic changes making them important global health concerns. With public health intervention and a strategy to reduce human impacts, these can be prevented.

Reducing Impacts of Human Activities Reducing our carbon footprint will result in less greenhouse gas emissions. Although 55 % of our carbon footprint is related to services provided to or on our behalf of us, there is a lot we can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You will find that these actions are also beneficial to health and the environment. The actions we would take are dependent on our environment

Steps to reduce Carbon Footprints Do an audit Calculate your carbon footprint Determine which actions are required for your environment Reduce your carbon footprint to recommended level Protect your health from climate change Buy carbon credits to offset CO2 emissions Lobby for strong protective policies

1. After calculating your carbon footprint, you can offset it by buying credits. 2. Better use of transport, water, food and energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect our health from climate change and prevent global warming.

Transportation For each liter of fuel burnt in a car engine, 2.5 kg of CO2 are produced. Walking, cycling and taking public transport as alternatives to driving will not only save on greenhouse gas missions but will contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Water Climate change is expected to worsen water quality and quantity. Preservation of water quantity and quality will maintain safe drinking water and reduce the risks of waterborne diseases.

Food Food production is major contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing consumption of meat and dairy products in industrialized countries can result in less CO2 and methane emissions. WHO recommends 90g meat daily in industrialized countries. In developing and poorer countries meat intake may have to be increased. For healthy eating meat products can be replaced by meat alternatives such as fish, legumes and beans. One food serving (75g) of meat from animal source daily can reduce your carbon footprint while giving you the nutrition you require.

On average the food in your supermarket travels 1,500 miles from field to the supermarket. Buying local produce would reduce your carbon footprint by reducing food miles. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by using organic produce. Other foods are likely to be grown with petroleum based fertilizers and pesticides.

Energy Each year1.5 million people die as a result of indoor air pollution. Cleaning air filters regularly can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One clean air filter can save 175lbs of CO2 per year.

Tips for Reduction Go for a run instead of driving to the gym Do your shopping on line instead of driving long distances Car pool to school or to work Buy organic produce Buy locally grown seasonal produce Use organic based personal care and beauty products Take the train instead of the plane Walk, cycle or take public transport.