How to Track an Ecological Footprint

Reducing consumption can preserve natural environments across the globe for generations.

A person's ecological footprint is defined as the impact he has on the environment. It can be impacted by everyday decisions such as food or transportation choices, and by larger decisions like where he lives and how he receives electricity. An ecological footprint is measured by "global hectares," and there are 15.71 of renewable global hectares (43 global acres) for each person in the world. According to the Global Footprint Network, if everyone "lived the lifestyle of the average American, we would need five planets." There are a number of online quizzes that can help an individual determine what their precise ecological footprint is, though a person can calculate their consumption by tracking every day activities like transportation and food choices.

Instructions

1. Determine where you live. People who live in developed countries like the United States typically have larger ecological footprints. Additionally, people who live in urban or suburban areas usually have larger ecological footprints than those in rural areas.

2. Determine from where you receive your food. Much food in supermarkets travels extensively from locations around the world, which uses up a lot of fuel and energy. Food purchased from area farmers uses less energy and supports area businesses.

3. Calculate how far you travel each year. Additionally, keep track of any public transportation options you use, or if you carpool or use a bicycle. The less fuel used, the smaller your ecological footprint.

4. Determine consumption of electricity in your home. Unplugging appliances not in use and using energy-efficient light bulbs can decrease electric use. Additionally, limited use of heating and air conditioning units can decrease electric use.

References

• Center for Sustainable Economy: Ecological Footprint Quiz
• Global Footprint Network
• The Sustainable Scale Project