Ecological Footprints

Liam Thomas
6 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers the human impact on the environment, focusing on the concept of ecological footprint. It explains how to calculate an ecological footprint, comparing individual and corporate impacts. It also discusses sustainability and overshoot, and offers exam tips, practice questions, and key terms like resource management for the AP Environmental Science Exam.
#AP Environmental Science: Human Impact Study Guide π
Hey there! Let's get you prepped for the AP Environmental Science exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially for that last-minute review. We'll break down the concepts, highlight key points, and make sure you're feeling confident!
#Human Impact on the Environment
#Understanding Our Footprint
Human activities have a HUGE impact on our planet. The concept of an ecological footprint helps us visualize this impact. Think of it as a map of your environmental participation β what you consume, what you pollute, and how much space you need to sustain your lifestyle. π£
- An ecological footprint can be calculated for individuals, communities, regions, countries, and even the entire planet.
- It represents the βcostβ of producing the goods and services we use.
#Calculating Your Ecological Footprint
Several factors contribute to your ecological footprint. Here are some key questions to consider:
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Transportation: How do you get around? (Walking, biking, driving, public transport?) πΆββοΈ π
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Travel: How often do you fly? Are your flights local or international? βοΈ
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Diet: What do you eat? (Meat-heavy, vegetarian, vegan?) Where does your food come from? π₯© π₯¦
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Consumption: How often do you buy new things? What about secondhand items? ποΈ
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Energy Use: Do you use renewable energy sources for heating? βοΈ
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Water Use: How long do you shower? πΏ
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Home Heating/Cooling: What temperature do you keep your home at? π‘οΈ
The size of your ecological footprint reflects the amount of resources you consume and the waste you produce.

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