We are leaving carbon footprints at a disturbing rate! This is exactly what researchers all around the globe are pondering about, considering the alarming rate at which the earth is warming up.

Co2 emissions which is "the" main cause of increasing global temperatures can be curbed, and quite effectively if each individual makes simple alterations to their lifestyle. Chennaiites have taken the cue and have turned their green on!

Mr.S.Indrakumar, Senator, Exnora International practiced what he preached by making his house a model eco-friendly house .His propagation includes tree plantations, zero garbage, waste water treatment, rain water harvesting , home farming and a plethora of other such measures. Home Exnora is a novel idea whereby they guide people who are interested in converting their homes to greener homes .

At the corporate level Chennai is a pioneer in green buildings. There are only 80 green buildings in India and Chennai leads the pack with buildings like the ABN Amro, World Bank building, Chennai Tech Park in the city which are all certified green buildings.

Chennai has another ace up its sleeve for housing South India's first Ecotel, "The Raintree". The Ecotel incorporates eco-friendly measures into every aspect of its functioning, right from the minutest details .Chennai is sure setting a trend, while others follow suit.

However each one of us can reduce our carbon footprints . The next time you set out shopping for groceries, don't forget to tag along your own shopping bag. You'd be saving a whole bunch of CO2 from polluting the environment. Reduce the number of miles you drive by walking, cycling, carpooling or taking mass transit wherever possible .Avoiding just 10 miles of driving every week would eliminate about 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions a year! Give the treadmill a miss .Instead walk you way to nearby stores . It can't get easier than this!

All you have to do is shell out, maybe a little lesser than what you normally do to make our home a better place to live in. Each one of us can make a sea change and quite literally!

S Asha