---
title: "Carbon Footprint — AP Environmental Science Definition"
description: "A carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas output of a person, product, or country. In APES Unit 6, it explains why developed nations drive fossil fuel demand."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/carbon-footprint"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Carbon Footprint — AP Environmental Science Definition

## Definition

Carbon footprint refers to the total amount of greenhouse gases (primarily carbon dioxide) emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or product throughout its lifecycle. It measures the impact of human activities on climate change.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.2 Global Energy Consumption](/ap-enviro/unit-6/global-energy-consumption/study-guide/OfQhtthGMOLHJHFwC3zo)
- [6.3 Fuel Types and Uses](/ap-enviro/unit-6/fuel-types-uses/study-guide/gSCAb3LVL5rkRp2HrqFp)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Greenhouse Gases](/ap-enviro/key-terms/greenhouse-gases): Gases that trap heat in Earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming.
- Renewable Energy: Energy generated from sources that can be naturally replenished, such as solar or wind power.
- [Sustainability](/ap-enviro/key-terms/sustainability): The practice of using resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.