Understanding Your Carbon Footprint

Even with today’s increased focus on carbon emissions, vegetation management professionals may not see how the topic is relevant to their everyday operations. As reducing carbon emissions becomes more important to businesses, contractors are often expected to demonstrate a commitment to it as well. Additionally, research shows that vegetation management techniques such as selective herbicide application can deliver strong results with a smaller carbon footprint. This article offers an overview of what a carbon footprint is and why it’s so important.

What is a carbon footprint?

Simply put, a carbon footprint is the total amount of carbon emissions (also called greenhouse gas emissions) generated by a person or business. For example, driving to a job site in a combustible fuel engine vehicle increases your carbon footprint because the exhaust contains carbon dioxide (CO2).

How are carbon emissions linked to climate change?

Greenhouse gasses such as CO2 trap heat in the atmosphere, raising the temperature of the planet and causing changes with global impacts, such as shifting weather patterns.

Why should vegetation management professionals be concerned about reducing their carbon footprint?

Local governments and businesses are increasingly focused on climate change, often setting carbon emissions reduction goals that they expect their vendors and partners to help them meet. Knowing about and getting ahead of this issue is becoming necessary for businesses that expect to thrive in the long term.

What actions can vegetation management professionals take to reduce their carbon footprint?

Shifting away from activities that burn fossil fuels will help lower greenhouse gas emissions. For example, selective herbicide applications that allow you to reduce the number of times you mow would lower your carbon footprint because mowers burn gasoline, which emits CO2.

What are some good first steps to take?

1. Educate yourself on greenhouse gas emissions for ideas on how you can reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Review information and resources that are available to you through the Envu Stewardship Team.

3. Consult your Envu representative for recommendations that can help reduce your carbon footprint.