What is an ecological footprint? (2) List and briefly explain 3 factors that contribute to it (3)
An ecological footprint is a measure of the impact that an individual, organization, or community has on the environment in terms of the resources consumed and waste produced.
Three factors that contribute to an ecological footprint are:
1. Energy consumption: The amount of energy used in the form of electricity, gas, and transportation directly impacts the ecological footprint. The production and use of fossil fuels for energy generation contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and habitat destruction.
2. Water usage: The amount of water consumed for personal use, agriculture, and industrial processes is another significant factor in the ecological footprint. Excessive water extraction for irrigation, industrial cooling, and domestic use can deplete freshwater resources and negatively impact aquatic ecosystems.
3. Waste generation: The production of waste, including solid waste, liquid waste, and air pollutants, also contributes to the ecological footprint. Improper waste management can lead to pollution of land, air, and water, as well as harm to wildlife and human health. Recycling, reducing waste production, and proper disposal methods can help minimize the environmental impact of waste generation.