Environmental Science and Sustainability

Due today

Primary Discussion Response is due by Friday (11:59:59pm Central), 

Task Description:

Sustainability is a combination of population size and consumption of resources per person.  In this discussion, we will work as a class to understand sustainability as it applies to our lives.  Here is what you need to do.

For your main post (due by Friday)

1. Select one of the three Term Options, and view the associated video
   • Option 1 – Ecological Footprint 
   • Option 2 – Carbon Footprint
   • Option 3 – Human Carrying Capacity
2. Summarize what you learned about your selected term in a detailed paragraph.
3. Use one of the following calculators to determine your individual footprint:
   • Ecological Footprint calculator
   • Carbon Footprint calculator
4. Compare your values to the set of national averages from the calculator you used:
   • If you chose the Ecological Footprint calculator, compare your values to these national averages:
     • Ecological Footprint = 8.1 gha
       • Food = 2.0 gha
       • Shelter = 0.3 gha
       • Mobility = 3.5 gha
       • Goods = 0.8 gha
       • Services = 1.5 gha
   • If you chose the Carbon Footprint calculator, compare your values to these national averages:
     • Carbon Footprint = 66,810 lbs
       • Home Energy = 43,076 lbs
       • Transportation = 20,968 lbs
       • Waste = 2,766 lbs
5. In a detailed paragraph answer these questions using the results of your footprint calculation:
   • What would the impact be if each person in the world had the same footprint as you?
   • In what areas are your footprint values less than the national average?
   • In what areas are your footprint values greater than the national average?
   • Were these results surprising to you?  Why or why not?
6. In a detailed paragraph, describe three ways you can reduce your footprint; which of these changes would be easiest, which would be hardest, and why.