Ecological Footprint Investigation: What is YOUR Ecological Footprint?

Last updated over 3 years ago
16 questions
Part 1: Go to this website: Welcome to the Anthropocene: Population Matters
1

What is the definition of “Anthropocene”?

1

Why do scientists say we are currently in the Sixth Mass Extinction?

1

Look at the diagram above. How does this illustrate the idea that humans are an invasive species?

1

According to this website, what are the critical steps that need to be taken to “save the world”? List at least four.

Part 2: Go to this website: http://www.footprintnetwork.org/faq/
1

What is an Ecological Footprint?

1

What is Biocapacity?

1

What is Overshoot?

1

Ecological footprints can be calculated for individual people, groups of people (such as nations), and activities (such as manufacturing a product). How is the ecological footprint of a person calculated?

Part 3: Click on the following link to “Calculate your Footprint”: www.footprintcalculator.org.
  • Scroll down and take the quiz to determine your footprint.
  • After creating your character, enter “detailed information” on the lower portion of each menu screen.
  • Drag each item to determine how often you use each resource. If you are unsure, make an educated estimate (or use the average response).
  • Complete the Quiz.
1

How many “earths” would it take to support you?

1

When you get to the end of your ecological footprint calculation, click on “See Details”.
Take a screen shot of the pie chart showing the breakdown of your footprint and insert it below.

1

How many global hectares does it take to support you and your lifestyle?
  • Which type of land is the most for you?
  • Which type of land is the least for you?

1

Select “Explore Scenarios” to see how you can reduce your footprint. Read all of the suggestions and list two that you think realistically you could do.

On your own:
1

Living “Green” has gained a lot of attention and popularity lately. What efforts have you seen that are considered “green”?

1

Have you or your family made any “green” changes to your daily lives? Describe what, if any changes you have made in the last few years.

1

In what ways are buying organic foods and buying local foods “green”?

1

Our new school was designed with several “green” components. In fact LMSD was one of only 14 districts nationwide to receive a “Green award”! Look on the LMSD website and write down some of the environmentally friendly ways that our district uses either in the day-to-day operations, or in the design of the new schools.