Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. The need to reduce CO2 emissions is becoming ever more pressing, both globally and locally. Renewable energies have emerged as an obvious response to this urgency, gradually becoming a cornerstone of national and international strategies to limit global warming. But what is their real impact on reducing the carbon footprint? And above all, how can individuals and communities contribute to this green transition? In this article, we explore these questions and take a practical look at how renewable energies are transforming our relationship with the environment.
Understanding the Carbon Footprint: Measurement and Impact
The carbon footprint refers to the total quantity of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. It can be calculated on the scale of an individual, a company or an entire nation. This measure takes into account various factors such as energy consumption, transport, the production of goods and services, and even food.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the individual carbon footprint is heavily influenced by the use of private electricity generators, often fuelled by diesel, due to irregular access to electricity. In urban areas, these generators are essential, particularly for small businesses and households. Furthermore, the massive use of charcoal and firewood in rural areas for cooking and heating contributes to deforestation and CO2 emissions.