# 3.2 Summary of Section 3

The main learning points from Section 3 are:

- Individual and household carbon calculators are models that use data, mathematical equations and assumptions to convert information that you provide about your home, travel, etc. into an approximate figure for your carbon footprint.
- The results provided by a carbon calculator can only be as good as the accuracy of the data, assumptions, equations and options within the model and the information entered into it. Carbon calculators have to make compromises between usability and accuracy.
- Carbon calculators allow you to model the effects on your carbon footprint of making changes (e.g. to your home’s energy efficiency, travel choices or diet), and so explore how best to reduce your footprint.

Now you know the extent of your carbon footprint, next you will look at ways of reducing it.

OpenLearn - Environment: treading lightly on the Earth
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