What is an environmental footprint?
Environmental footprint is a concept that describes the impact of human activity on the environment. It measures how much natural resources are used and how much waste and emissions are generated as a result of a certain activity. The environmental footprint can be calculated at the level of an individual, company, community or even the entire country. It helps to understand how sustainable the operation is and where there is room for improvement.
What does the environmental footprint include?
The environmental footprint consists of several different areas, which together give an overall picture of the environmental impact of the operation. These areas include, among others:
- Carbon footprint: Measures greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), which are generated from, for example, energy consumption, transport and industry.
- Water footprint: Estimates water consumption and water pollution. This includes both direct water use (e.g. household water consumption) and indirect water use (e.g. agricultural and industrial water use).
- Land use footprint: Covers the use of land areas, such as logging, agriculture and urban construction. This affects biodiversity and the functioning of ecosystems.
- Material Footprint: Measures the consumption of natural resources such as minerals, metals and fossil fuels.
Why is the environmental footprint important?
Understanding and measuring the environmental footprint is important for several reasons:
- Promoting sustainable development: With the help of the environmental footprint, it is possible to identify which activities have the most environmental impacts and how they can be reduced.
- Combating climate change: Reducing the carbon footprint is a key part of curbing climate change. This may include, for example, improving energy efficiency and using renewable energy sources.
- Saving natural resources: Reducing the water footprint and material footprint helps preserve natural resources for future generations.
- Increasing environmental awareness: Measuring and reporting the environmental footprint can increase awareness of environmental impacts and encourage more sustainable choices.
How to reduce your own environmental footprint?
Each of us can do a lot to reduce our own environmental footprint. Here are some tips:
- Reduce energy consumption: Use energy-efficient appliances, turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider using renewable energy sources.
- Reduce water consumption: Fix leaking taps, use water sparingly and choose water-saving devices.
- Reduce the amount of waste: Recycle, compost and avoid disposable products. Choose products with less packaging material.
- Choose sustainable consumption habits: Favor locally produced and sustainably manufactured products. Avoid unnecessary consumption and consider the life cycle of products before making a purchase decision.
- Move sustainably: Use public transport, cycle or walk, and consider purchasing an electric car or other low-emission vehicle.
Reducing the environmental footprint is a joint effort that requires the actions of both individuals and communities. Every step towards a more sustainable lifestyle is a step towards a healthier planet.
Sources:
WWF Finland: Carbon Footprint
Sitra: Environmental Footprint
Ministry of the Environment: Environmental Footprint
