carbon copy 

the carbonsmart blog 

new mobility 

sustainable transport in South Africa 

Being carbonsmart is taking responsibility for the impacts of our activities in the way we use carbon. Carbon is cycled naturally through ecosystems, but human activity has increased the amount of carbon in the atmosphere particularly through the burning of fuel (in power stations, vehicles and individual homes, offices and factories) and the management of large herds of livestock. This atmospheric carbon takes the form of gases such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane, contributing to the trapping of heat in the atmosphere, which is why they have been dubbed "greenhouse gases". These and other pollutants have not only potential climate impacts, but also health impacts from airborne particles that affect the respiratory systems of people and animals.

Taking responsibility requires being aware of how our activities contribute to these effects, adapting to the environmental changes they cause, and ensuring that we don't create irreparable damage to the earth's ecosystems. Many scientists believe that our activities have already committed us to a considerable period of climate change, and that the focus now should be on adapting to impending change and not making it worse. Others are doubtful that any policy changes are needed, and that there are enough mechanisms built into our social and economic structures to ensure that things right themselves without deliberate intervention.

Raising awareness and contributing to the debate will help determine the best course. We cannot use ignorance as an excuse for inaction; the potential consequences are serious. I started the carbonsmart site to gather news and opinions of interest to me, and I make no attempt to be comprehensive here. This is just a collection of things that have caught my eye, and perhaps they will interest you.

> Rory Williams