Conscious Video Blog

Are we running out of planet? Was Malthus wrong? Do economies self-correct or self-destruct when operating as if resources are limitless? Can everyone on this planet live like a Chinese? A Costa Rican? A Canadian? Mathis Wackernagel, co-creator of the Ecological Footprint, explores these questions, and showcases applications from around the world with government agencies, NGOs, businesses, cities, highlighting how this tool helps make development sustainable.

Since the 1980s, humanity’s demand on ecological resources has exceeded what the Earth can renew. We are in a state of ecological overshoot, on an unsustainable path. We can reverse this trend by managing both supply and demand. The Ecological Footprint is a practical, scientific tool designed to do just that. Developed over the last 15 years, this tool compares human demand on ecological resources with the planet’s capacity to renew them and is being used by hundreds of governments, businesses, and NGOs around the globe.

Global Footprint Network’s mission is to support a sustainable economy by advancing the Ecological Footprint and making the reality of planetary limits relevant to decision-makers throughout the world. Together with its over 50 partner organizations around the world, Global Footprint Network continuously strengthens and improves the Ecological Footprint by coordinating research, developing methodological standards, and providing robust national resource accounts. For more information visit www.footprintnetwork.org.

By harnessing the power of the wind and collecting the suns energy sustainability is achievable even in the cold northern climate of Ontario, Canada. Situated near the top of a hill, facing due south, this passive solar house uses concrete flooring to collect heat from the sun without the need for a furnace. Massive straw bale walls insulate the home to retain heat in the winter and coolness in the summer. A large skylight in the center of the home creates a natural air conditioner that takes advantage of convention currents in the summer to cool the entire home, while providing day lighting year round. All the materials used in the construction are chemical and toxin free. This modern home combines comfort year round, energy sustainability, occupant health, and the inspiration of a natural setting.