What is an Ecological Footprint? How does this relate to the Earth’s Carrying Capacity? What can be done to reduce Ecological Footprints?

At a workshop with Claire Wagner at the University of Pretoria, we explored these questions. This included measuring Ecological Footprints and identifying and reviewing options to reduce these. There were interesting discussions on different diet, purchasing habits, mobility and accommodation choices and their implications.

Many of the options identified by participants not only reduce Ecological Footprints but also have additional benefits, such as improved health, social interaction, family life and reduced costs. However, there are also concerns, such as those about safety and crime, that prevent some of these from being adopted. These concerns need to be understood and addressed in the design and management of urban areas, housing and transport systems to ensure that people make more sustainable choices.