Eye Opener: Ecological Footprint

Before this assignment I had no idea what an ecological footprint was.  In short an ecological footprint can be answered in the simple question of how much of Earth's resources does your lifestyle require?  This question came from the Redefining Progress The Nature of Economics. 

After reading more in depth about what the ecological footprint is, I decided to take the Ecological footprint quiz.  This quiz basically helped me get an idea of how much area of land and ocean are needed to provide for my individual needs. The footprint is divided into four consumption subgroups:  carbon being home energy use and transportation, food, housing, and goods/services.  The footprint is also broken down into four ecosystems types:  cropland, pastureland, forestland, and marine fisheries.

After I took the quiz I was not too happy with my results.  Overall, I was above average.  I was greatly above average in my Carbon and Goods/Services footprints.  I was above average in my food footprint and just average in my housing footprint.  I couldn't believe it that if everyone in the world lived the way I do, we would need 4.99 worlds!  That is not easy to hear.

One change that I realize that could be made is to start car-pooling with people.  I am originally from the cities and visit often (2-3 times a month) and almost always drive alone.  I think it would be better if I found other people to go with, ride a train (if possible) or to even limit my vists.  I also realize that taking the bus is an option to get to school.  Even if I only rode the bus two or three times a week, it could make a big difference if it is thought about in yearly terms. 

One other change I feel that would be vital would be to stop eating out so much and start going to supermarkets and buy organic foods.  I probably eat out more than the average person, mostly because it is a quick eat and being a full time student with a part time job does not leave much time to cook.  Although I am sure there are simple things that are available for me to cook/bake, but I just don't have the knowledge of the sorts. 

This was a good exercise to get us students thinking about how our behaviors and decisions impact the world at large.