Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere. These gases regulate the Earth’s surface at a higher temperature than normal. The main greenhouse gases include:

• Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
• Methane (CH4)
• Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
• Chlorofluorocarbon-12 (CCI2F2)
• Hydrofluorocarbon-23 (CHF3)
• Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
• Nitrogen Trifluoride (NF3)

Humans cause an increase in greenhouse gas emissions every single day. The biggest factor for this increase is car transportation. Burning fossil fuels (petroleum) in cars, trucks, trains, and ships emits an excessive amount of carbon dioxide. Another source of greenhouse gases is electricity production. Electricity produced by coal or natural gas releases greenhouse gases when created. Industrial production also plays a key role in emitting greenhouse gases by using heavy machinery that requires fossil fuels.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is constantly working to reduce greenhouse emissions through several calculations and evaluations. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt launched the “Back to Basics Agenda” which included the three E’s to success:

• Environment: Protecting the environment
• Economy: Sensible regulations that allow economic growth
• Engagement: Engaging with state and local partners

These three E’s have set a focus for the EPA’s mission to “protect human health and the environment.” The EPA has established regulation for the greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles which will cut 6 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases in the near future. Changes made by the EPA will hopefully reduce the overall carbon footprint of every household in the United States.

A carbon footprint represents the amount of greenhouse gases emitted during your everyday life. Factors included in this calculation include electricity, transportation, and waste. Find out what your carbon footprint is and how to reduce it here! (https://www3.epa.gov/carbon-footprint-calculator/)

Reducing our personal carbon footprints to better the environment requires many sacrifices. At CEDARVILLE Engineering Group, LLC (CEG), we strive to protect the environment. Call us at 610-705-4500 or email info@cedarvilleeng.com to find out more.

By: J. Auerbach