Tracing footprints for a greener tomorrow; A cross-sectional study to assess the carbon footprint of the urban households of Vijayapura city

Abstract

Background: The concept of carbon footprint is rooted in measuring the volume of greenhouse gases, predominantly carbon dioxide (CO2), resulting from human activities. India has witnessed a significant surge in greenhouse gas emissions due to rapid economic growth and population expansion, making it the world's third-largest CO2 emitter. This upsurge intensifies the natural greenhouse effect, leading to global temperature rise, ocean acidification, and heightened risks to human health. Objectives: To assess the Carbon Footprint generated by urban households of Vijayapura. Material and methods: This study employs a cross-sectional approach targeting urban households residing within the operational area of the urban health center in BLDE(DU), Vijayapura City. The sample, comprising 150 households, was selected via systematic random sampling. Data was collected through household visits and interviews with the family heads using a semi-structured questionnaire. and analyzed utilizing SPSS Software Version 26. Results: The analysis of carbon emissions highlights that primary emissions surpass secondary emissions. Notably, households categorized under the upper socioeconomic class exhibit a statistically significant carbon emission rate of approximately 39.47 tonnes per month. Conclusion: This study's assessment of the carbon footprint emanating from urban households illuminates the pivotal connection between day-to-day choices and the broader ecological context.