Ecological Footprint Summary

Understanding Ecological Footprint

  • Definition: An ecological footprint gauges an individual's or community's environmental impact, measuring land/water area needed for resources consumed and waste absorption.

  • Examples of High Footprint Behaviors:

    • Daily consumption of non-local tropical fruits.
    • Buying unnecessary new school supplies each year.
    • Driving within short distances instead of walking.
    • Frequent washing of small laundry loads.
    • Keeping electronics on for extended periods.
    • Regularly purchasing the latest technology.
    • Owning excess clothing (more than two pairs of pants).
    • Frequently eating out or ordering takeout.

Importance of Understanding Your Footprint

  • Identifying areas for personal improvement.
  • Encouraging sustainable practices and responsible consumption.

Measuring Your Footprint

  • Various online calculators are available to assess your ecological footprint.
  • Global average impact statistics:
    • Canada's ecological footprint is 7.4 global hectares (gha).
    • US average is similar; global human average is 2.6 gha.

Consequences of High Ecological Footprint

  • Resource depletion and increased pollution.
  • Waste generation and loss of biodiversity.
  • Accelerated climate change.
  • In Canada, more than 50% of the footprint is due to fuel consumption.

Case Study: Canada

  • Canada has one of the highest per capita ecological footprints globally.
  • If all global citizens lived like Canadians, we would need 4.1 Earths.
  • Mississauga requires 56 times its area to support its ecological footprint.
  • Toronto has a lower average footprint than Ontario.

Global Plastic Waste and Issues

  • Rise in plastic waste leading to environmental issues

    • Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Contains approximately 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic, primarily fishing gear and microplastics.

  • The issue of wealthy countries exporting waste to developing nations for processing.

    • Canada has faced backlash for dumping waste in the Philippines.

Homework Questions

  • Explore perspectives on Canada’s waste in developing countries.
  • Discuss whether Canada should export its waste for processing.