What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is specifically defined as a measure of greenhouse gas emissions that result directly or indirectly from an individual, organization, event, or product throughout its life cycle. This encompasses the total amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted, which significantly contributes to climate change and global warming. By quantifying these emissions, the term highlights the environmental impact associated with various activities and consumption patterns.

In relation to the other options, the definitions of economic performance, water usage, and employee satisfaction do not pertain to the environmental impact indicated by a carbon footprint. Economic performance measures financial outcomes, water usage relates to natural resource consumption, and employee satisfaction reflects the wellbeing and morale of a workforce—all distinct from the concept of greenhouse gas emissions, which is the core focus of a carbon footprint.