Ways to reduce carbon footprint-sensible, with numbers

In summary, the conversation is about an interesting book that focuses on alternate energy rather than global warming, written by a physicist. The book is available as a free download from the website without hot air, which also contains a lot of useful data and graphs. The speaker recommends the book and mentions that the author is highly intelligent, even by Cambridge physics department standards. The book discusses ways to reduce carbon footprint through technology and lifestyle changes. Additional information about the book can be found on the website.
  • #1
mgb_phys
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An interesting book not so much about global warming but alternate energy and an analysis of the numbers behind it - from a physicist.

The book is now available as a free download from http://www.withouthotair.com/
Ignore the physicist grade graphic design of the website - the book is much better than this, with a lot of very useful data and graphs. It's also an entertaining read.

Disclaimer - I used to work in the group next door to this guy. Even by Cambridge physics dept standards he is a seriously smart cookie.


(didn't we used to have a book review section ?)
 
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  • #2
Ways to reduce carbon footprint--sensible, with numbers

http://www.withouthotair.com/

Princeton astrophysicist David Hogg blogs that he recently gave a seminar talk at Stanford by wire because the talks organizer is looking for ways to cut carbon.
Hogg referred in passing to a book I wasn't familiar with, as the "bible" of ways that technology and lifestyle changes can reduce emissions ("Sustainable energy without the hot air")

What is your impression of this "bible"? The pdf can be downloaded free, and a paper edition is on sale. However a lot of information is directly available in html at the website. Maybe the first question to ask is how does the website look, quality-wise. Can one recommend the withouthotair link?
 

1. How much of an impact does transportation have on carbon footprint?

Transportation accounts for about 28% of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.

2. What is the most effective way to reduce carbon footprint in transportation?

Switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle can reduce carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to a traditional gasoline car.

3. How can individuals reduce their carbon footprint at home?

Reducing energy consumption by 10-15% through simple actions like turning off lights and unplugging electronics can significantly reduce carbon footprint.

4. What is the role of diet in carbon footprint?

The production of animal products, particularly beef, has a much higher carbon footprint than plant-based foods. Switching to a plant-based diet can reduce carbon emissions by up to 50%.

5. Can using renewable energy sources really make a difference in carbon footprint?

Yes, switching to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional fossil fuels.

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