The carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere is referred to as the carbon footprint.

The carbon footprint consists of two parts: direct and indirect emissions.

Daily human activities that rely on fossil fuels — such as transportation, heating, and cooking — create a direct carbon footprint.

Meanwhile, all stages of a product’s life cycle, from its production and transportation to its disposal, generate an indirect carbon footprint.

For instance, it is estimated that the production and consumption of one kilogram of cheese result in the emission of about 12 kilograms of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Experts calculate the average per capita carbon footprint to be around 4 tons.

Reducing the carbon footprint can start with small but meaningful steps — such as avoiding air travel unless absolutely necessary, choosing public transportation, and turning toward renewable energy alternatives.