How do you evaluate and improve your own environmental impact and footprint?

1 Calculate your footprint

The first step is to calculate your ecological footprint, which is the amount of land and water you need to support your lifestyle. You can use online tools like the Global Footprint Network or the WWF Footprint Calculator to estimate your footprint based on your answers to some questions about your food, energy, transport, and shopping habits. This will give you an idea of how many Earths we would need if everyone lived like you.

2 Identify your impact areas

The next step is to identify the areas where you have the most impact on the environment, and where you can make the most improvements. For example, you might find that you use a lot of electricity, water, or fuel, or that you generate a lot of waste or greenhouse gas emissions. You can use your footprint calculator results, your utility bills, or your waste bins to track your impact areas.

3 Set your goals and action plan

The third step is to set some realistic and specific goals and action plans to reduce your impact and footprint. For example, you might aim to cut your electricity use by 10%, your water use by 20%, or your waste by 50%. You can also make a list of actions that will help you achieve your goals, such as switching to renewable energy, installing water-saving devices, or composting your organic waste.

4 Implement your action plan

The fourth step is to implement your action plan and start making changes in your daily habits and choices. For example, you can turn off the lights and appliances when not in use, take shorter showers, use public transport or bike instead of driving, buy local and organic food, or use reusable bags and containers. You can also involve your family, friends, and fellow scouts in your action plan and share your tips and challenges with them.

5 Monitor your progress and results

The fifth step is to monitor your progress and results and see how much you have reduced your impact and footprint. You can use your footprint calculator again, compare your utility bills, or weigh your waste to measure your savings and improvements. You can also record your achievements and challenges in a journal or a spreadsheet, and celebrate your successes and learn from your mistakes.

6 Review and adjust your action plan

The final step is to review and adjust your action plan and goals based on your progress and results. You might find that some actions are easier or harder than you expected, or that some areas need more or less attention. You can also look for new ways to reduce your impact and footprint, such as joining a community garden, volunteering for a conservation project, or advocating for environmental policies.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?