CARBON FOOTPRINT THROUGH THE LENS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

The carbon footprint is one of the key indicators used to evaluate the environmental impacts of human activities and to guide sustainability policies. It refers to the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere by individuals, institutions, or products. The carbon footprint encompasses not only direct emissions such as those resulting from energy production but also indirect sources, including manufacturing processes, logistics operations, and waste management. Today, these measurements are carried out based on various standards and methodologies. In particular, advancements in sensor technologies, the widespread adoption of cloud-based systems, and increased computational capacity have made it possible to monitor carbon footprints dynamically and in real time. These technological developments enable more precise tracking of environmental impacts over time and contribute to raising public awareness by providing personalized recommendations based on individual consumption habits. This study provides a comprehensive examination of the definition and significance of the carbon footprint, relevant standards, calculation methods, pricing mechanisms, and innovative technological approaches.