A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and in particular climate change. It relates to the amount of greenhouse gases produced in our day-to-day lives through burning fossil fuels for electricity, heating and transportation etc. Here's a list of simple things you can do immediately

• Turn it off when not in use (lights, television, DVD player, Hi Fi, computer etc. etc.)
• Turn down the central air conditioner slightly (try just 1 to 2 degrees)
• Turn down the water heating setting (just 2 degrees will make a significant saving)
• Check the central air conditioning timer setting - remember there is no point cooling the house after you have left for work
• Fill your dish washer and washing machine with a full load - this will save you water, electricity, and washing powder
• Fill the kettle with only as much water as you need
• Do your weekly shopping in a single trip
• Hang out the washing to dry rather than tumble drying it