The purpose of this paper is to define a “carbon footprint” and provide an insight into the terminologies and approaches included within this concept. A number of key issues are addressed in this discussion.
Firstly, the origins of the “footprinting concept” are addressed to establish the conceptual history associated with this term. Secondly, existing literature is critiqued to scope the various definitions, highlight distinctions and articulate a preferred definition of a carbon footprint. Thirdly, key methodological steps involved in the calculation of a carbon footprint are addressed. Lastly, recommendations of this study are presented, linking the broader debate on “what is a carbon footprint” with implications for the development of a footprinting tool in the Australian Horticultural industry.
What is a Carbon Footprint?
