How to reduce carbon footprint – Simple ideas for kids

What's included?

Two-page PDF

Key Stage

KS2

Age

Years 3-6

Subjects

This PDF from Wicked Weather Watch explains to children what a carbon footprint is and how to reduce your carbon footprint. There are lots of ideas for children to try both at school and at home.

We can all play our part in fighting climate change, working together and being more aware of how our actions affect the amazing world we live in. If we each take small steps it will make a big difference.

What is a carbon footprint?

Unlike your footprints in wet sand, your carbon footprint can’t be seen. However, we all leave a carbon footprint, which impacts our planet, leaving a mark, just like our footprints in wet sand.

When we talk about our ‘carbon footprint’ we mean the amount of carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas also known as CO2) we release into the air because of our own energy needs.

For example, every time we use energy that comes from fossil fuels – such as coal, oil and natural gas – to heat our homes, drive a car, journey by plane on holiday or eat food that was grown overseas, we create carbon dioxide and make our carbon footprint bigger.

Most scientists believe that greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide are one of the biggest causes of global warming and climate change.

How to reduce yours

Turn off lights, TVs, computers and other electronic gadgets
Use both sides of a piece of paper when writing, drawing or colouring
Wear a jumper and turn down the heating when it’s cold
Grow fruits and vegetables at home or at school
Walk, ride your bike or scoot instead of taking a car
Set up a green team at school, with a representative from each class
Consider installing solar panels at school to reduce energy use
Reduce, reuse and recycle
Plant a tree

Wicked Weather Watch is a charity that aims to provide clarity for children and young people about climate change and global warming. Follow on Twitter at @WickedWeather1. Browse more climate change teaching resources.