A carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc. Since the industrial revolution, more CO₂ is being emitted into the mix of heat-trapping gases (greenhouse gases) than can be absorbed by what is known as carbon sinks — places where carbon can be absorbed instead of trapped in the atmosphere. Carbon sinks include trees, the ocean, and soil. Every little action makes a change, and therefore, It is vital to reduce our carbon footprint to reduce the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere. Focus on the positive. Do not use scare tactics (doom and gloom) to encourage behavior change. What children should know:

● Carbon dioxide is put into the atmosphere, mainly when we burn fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), primarily the result of our transportation needs and energy use.

● Industry, agriculture, and tree burning also contribute to CO₂ in the atmosphere.

● Carbon that is not absorbed in sinks (oceans, trees, and soils) stays trapped in the atmosphere making the global temperature warmer.

● Each action we take has a positive or negative impact on the environment, think cause and effect.

● You can change your habits and behavior to reduce the amount of CO₂ you contribute to the atmosphere.