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One Step at a Time
Eliminating your carbon footprint
By Stephanie Moss, MD of Stephanie Moss Solutions
 You’ve heard the term time and again: “carbon footprint”. But what does it really mean and what can you do about it?
A carbon footprint is simply a measurement. It’s the total amount of greenhouse gases created by your actions, your organization, an event or a product, and it’s measured in tonnes per year.
By the name you would assume that carbon dioxide is the only greenhouse gas. There are actually six gases in question. They are: Carbon Dioxide, Methane, Nitrous Oxide, Sulphur hexafluoride, Hydrofluorocarbons, and Perfluorocarbons.
Now you know what a carbon footprint is, but what can you do about it? While there are many lists of ideas on the Internet, they often range from sensible to questionable to just plain ignorant. Below are some principles that can help.
Look for Alternatives. Fossil fuels like coal and gas emit high levels of CO2. Look for alternatives like solar and wind power. This does not necessarily require expensive equipment – hanging out your washing instead of using the tumble dryer is also using alternative energy.
Waste Not, Want Not. This timeless rule is more relevant today than ever before. If you know that a certain activity contributes to global warming, cut back on it, especially when it is unnecessary. Of course, this means turning off unused electrical appliances or not driving when you could walk. More than that, it’s a mindset that can be applied to any activity to make sure it is absolutely necessary.
Use and Re-Use. Wherever possible, find ways to reuse items you would otherwise disposed of. This includes compositing organic waste instead of dumping it, or sorting items for easy recycling.
Locate, don’t Relocate. Avoid the carbon displacement trap. Buying an electric car might seem pretty green. But if the electricity used to recharge it comes from a traditional coal burning power station, you’ve simply relocated your carbon footprint to another area. It’s important to think your approach through.
Don’t be a Hero. Hero thinking requires a massive, one-shot attempt at saving the world. Actually, it’s the many small acts that, when added together, have a greater effect than any government or billionaire could accomplish. Add one new habit to your arsenal regularly.
If you do like lists though, the BBC’s Bloom site has a particularly comprehensive one that is worth looking into. Visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/bloom/sitemap.shtml for some good hints.
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December 2011
GRAND CENTRAL AIRPORT MIDRAND EXPANDS ITS DESTINATION OFFERING
Grand Central Airport in Midrand is in the process of applying for an international airport license and seeks to launch commercial operations within the next 18 months. The airport is currently in discussions with Airlink but several limitations and issues still need to be resolved.
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