Summary
A measure of human demand on ecosystems compared with the planet's regenerative capacity.
In depth
Measured in global hectares, it adds cropland, grazing, forest, fishing, built-up land and carbon uptake. Earth Overshoot Day, when annual demand exceeds supply, now falls around late July or early August.
The biocapacity of Earth is about 1.6 global hectares per person; average demand is higher. Footprints differ with consumption and diet.
Remember: it is an accounting tool with simplifications.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ecological Footprint?
A measure of human demand on ecosystems compared with the planet's regenerative capacity.
Which area of biology covers Ecological Footprint, and how advanced is it?
Ecological Footprint is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Primary Productivity, Carrying Capacity, Climate Change Ecology.
Can you give an example of Ecological Footprint?
Footprints differ greatly across nations.
What should I learn before Ecological Footprint?
Work through the Beginner topics in Ecology first, such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors, then return to Ecological Footprint. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Ecological Footprint?
The closest topics to Ecological Footprint are Primary Productivity, Carrying Capacity, Climate Change Ecology, Ecological Stoichiometry. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Ecological Footprint?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Ecological Footprint. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Ecological Footprint different from Primary Productivity?
Ecological Footprint: A measure of human demand on ecosystems compared with the planet's regenerative capacity. Primary Productivity: The rate at which producers convert energy into organic matter, gross minus respiration equals net. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Ecological Footprint step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Primary Productivity and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.