NOIRLab’s Expected Carbon Footprint Reduction

The figure shows the current NOIRLab carbon footprint due to grid electricity, diesel generators at our various sites, as well as air travel and vehicle fleets, with each contributor sized according to their contributions to the carbon footprint. The total carbon footprint is around 12,500 tons CO₂ equivalent. The green boxes show the reductions due to the current photovoltaic systems at Gemini North and Gemini South. Funded reductions are shown as hatched areas. Once all funded projects have been implemented, the carbon footprint will have been reduced by ~43%. We are seeking funding to reach a ~50% reduction by the end of 2027.