
We’re releasing more carbon into the atmosphere than the Earth’s natural carbon sinks can absorb. Now, increased human activity is upsetting the balance. Examples of carbon sources include the burning of fossil fuels like gas, coal and oil, deforestation and volcanic eruptions.

The ocean, soil and forests are the world’s largest carbon sinks.Ī carbon source releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This is known as the carbon cycle – a process that has been perfectly balanced for thousands of years.Ī carbon sink absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The amount of carbon on Earth has never changed but where carbon is located is constantly changing – it flows between the atmosphere and organisms on Earth as it’s released or absorbed. Get updates on our work What is the carbon cycle?Ĭarbon is essential to all life on Earth – it’s in our DNA, in the food we eat and the air we breathe. In contrast, a carbon source is anything that releases more carbon into the atmosphere than it absorbs – for example, the burning of fossil fuels or volcanic eruptions.

If we take the example of transport, taking the plane emits 285g of carbon per kilometre, compared to 104g for a car and 14g for a train. How much carbon is emitted to produce your t-shirt, meal or phone? The amount will depend on production and consumption choices.

Carbon footprint is a concept used to quantify the impact of an activity, a person or a country on climate change. Greenhouse gases are emitted through the production and consumption of goods and services. As an individual, you can also estimate your carbon footprint and reduce it. Many countries, institutions and companies have committed to reduce their emissions while the EU has even set the objective of being “climate neutral” by 2050. When you drive your car, buy a pair of sneakers or grill a steak, you contribute to the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Eating, travelling, heating your home… What's the carbon footprint of these activities and how can we make more climate-friendly choices?
