Other Resources
Get a better understanding of your energy use and make smart decisions about your future.
Environmental resources and definitions
Personal Emissions Calculator
Estimate the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from your household energy use and waste disposal – and identify ways to reduce your personal greenhouse gases – using this free online calculator from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
LEED Homes
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Homes is a rating system that promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. A green home uses less energy, creates less waste, and is healthier for the occupants. Benefits include lower energy and water bills; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins.
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) and The Greenhouse Effect. Like the glass walls of a greenhouse, certain gases occurring naturally in the Earth’'s atmosphere trap the sun’s heat and keep our planet warm and habitable. But, these "greenhouse gases" or GHGs are rising due to human activity, trapping too much heat and contributing to global warming. GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, and others.
Carbon Footprint. The amount of impact we have on the environment – due to activities that release CO2 and other GHGs into the atmosphere – is known as our "carbon footprint." CO2 is released when fossil fuels are burned to power our cars; heat, cool and light our homes; and manufacture everyday products. Knowing this, we can all take steps to reduce our climate change impact.
Climate. As background for grasping the other terms, it helps to know that "climate" refers to the long-term, average weather conditions of a region including; temperature, humidity, air pressure, precipitation, sunshine, cloudiness, wind and the frequency and intensity of storms.
Global Warming and Climate Change. Often used interchangeably, these related terms have distinct meanings. "Global warming" refers to the gradual rise of the Earth's average temperature and is believed to set broader weather changes in motion. "Climate change" refers to persistent shifts in any of the average weather conditions of a region.
