Carbon Footprint Calculator
Estimate your annual CO2 emissions from electricity, natural gas, driving, and air travel. See how you compare to the US average of 16 tons per year.
US average: ~900 kWh/month
Check your gas bill; US average ~50 therms
US average: ~1,100 miles/month
Domestic round-trip equivalent
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average carbon footprint in the US?
The average American produces about 16 metric tons of CO2 per year, which is one of the highest in the world. The global average is approximately 4.7 tons. Transportation and electricity are the two largest contributors for most individuals.
How can I reduce my carbon footprint?
The most impactful actions include: switching to renewable energy or solar panels, driving an electric vehicle or using public transit, reducing air travel, improving home insulation, and eating less meat. Even small changes like LED lighting and smart thermostats help.
How is CO2 from electricity calculated?
The US average is about 0.417 kg of CO2 per kWh of electricity, but this varies greatly by region. States with more renewable energy (like Washington or Vermont) have much lower emissions per kWh than states relying heavily on coal.