Booklet gives public chance to calculate carbon footprint
Almost 90,000 people have already used the online carbon calculator at change.ie, launched last May, but the new pamphlet is targeted at those without internet access. Environment Minister John Gormley said people must think twice about the impact of their lifestyle on the environment.
“Much of what we do involves the use of energy generated through burning coal, oil, gas and peat so the way we live, work and travel has a huge bearing on climate change,” Mr Gormley said. “Everyone is very conscious of financial cost these days and tries to live toa certain financial budget but we want to help people to realise the environmental cost of their activities too.”
On average 12 tonnes of Co2 are produced per person here every year through the use of fossil fuels for home heating, transport and air travel — three tonnes above the EU average.
Luxembourg tops the list at around 25 tonnes per person, while the Swedes are the greenest nationality at almost six tonnes.
The booklet includes information on the causes and the effects of climate change, provides advice to people on how to slash their emissions and a comprehensive questionnaire to help them calculate their carbon number.
“Through the Change campaign we are encouraging people to reduce their carbon number by being aware of their ‘carbon budget’ and trying to minimise activities which have a high carbon cost.
“The first step is for everybody to know their number, their individual contribution to climate change, and this calculator booklet is the way to workit out.”
The minister urged people to think twice about the environment and consider walking, cycling, or using public transport instead of driving.
He also reminded people to switch off lights and use low energy light bulbs at home and work.
The booklet is available from both libraries and local authorities.
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