#AP Environmental Science: Human Impact Study Guide 🌍

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 – what you consume, what you pollute, and how much space you need to sustain your lifestyle. 👣

• An ecological footprint can be calculated for individuals, communities, regions, countries, and even the entire planet.
• It represents the “cost” 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:

1. Transportation: How do you get around? (Walking, biking, driving, public transport?) 🚶‍♀️ 🚗

2. Travel: How often do you fly? Are your flights local or international? ✈️

3. Diet: What do you eat? (Meat-heavy, vegetarian, vegan?) Where does your food come from? 🥩 🥦

4. Consumption: How often do you buy new things? What about secondhand items? 🛍️

5. Energy Use: Do you use renewable energy sources for heating? ☀️

6. Water Use: How long do you shower? 🚿

7. Home Heating/Cooling: What temperature do you keep your home at? 🌡️

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