Ever wondered how much "nature", eco-footprint, is required to support your lifestyle choices?

Recently, through attending a series of environmental workshops, I participated in activities that highlighted eco-lifestyle choices, our footprints, as they relate to the surrounding environment. While I’m pleased to say my activities fall into the category of being an ‘eco-ally’, I was surprised to learn of the average person’s day-to-day impact. For, the average American has a total ecological footprint of about 25 acres, meaning that if everyone consumed similar to an average American, we would require several additional Earths to support this lifestyle.

Presently, there are about 5.5 acres of biologically productive land per capita in the world. Worldwide, the average per capita footprint is 6 acres. If we leave only 12% of the biosphere for other species, there is less than 5 acres available per person which translates to the fact that we humans have presently overshot the mark by at least 20%. Still, while excessive consumption is an issue, it is difficult to measure the degrees to which consumption choices affect both immediate and extended ecosystems.

On the other hand, eco-footprint tools are available that measure conservation, www.conservation.org/ecofootprint and help identify your eco status as well as learn where and how you presently fall short. So, the question is “Are you too big for your boots, your eco-footprint?”

As a gardener, I not only have the opportunity to make a difference related to personal choices but influence the use of green space, both rural and urban. So, I want to challenge you – as a 2010 resolution – to first measure and then, improve your eco-footprint. From a landscape/garden perspective
     Advocate the conservation of water. Not just the quantity but source. For example, I capture and use condensation from my air-conditioning unit for watering container plants.
    Choose native or native adaptable plants. Usually a native plant is the right plant in the right place which avoids numerous other site specific issues.
    Avoid using additive materials, such as peat, which are not a sustainable resource; in other words, once harvested the material does not regenerate itself.
   Create compost. Be aware that creating compost is neither a difficult or smelly task; and once you get into the cycle of creating compost; it is an excellent use of what would otherwise be considered garden and/or kitchen rubbish.
   Choose biodegradable products. For a number of years, ink on printed materials has no longer been toxic and these materials make excellent underlying mulch blankets that more importantly biodegrade.
   Avoid the use of chemicals. Install companion plants, create diversity, encourage beneficial visitors and perhaps, you too will be pleasantly surprised by the lack of unwanted garden guests.
   Avoid creating pristine orderly green spaces. In the wake of central Virginia’s storms, thousands of trees fell and my husband and I, similar to many Virginians, continue to clean up but I am comforted by the fact that a fallen tree provides a habitat for up to 300 years.
   Similarly, consider the source of landscape accessories. Select products made from recycled materials; for example, choose pavers material that is not only recycled but permeated, prevents water run-off.
    And, when you light up your space, do it with solar fixtures. Solar lighting is a frugal form of energy consumption and is easily installed.

On the scale of eco-footprint measurement, are you a novice or warrior? Do you presently make eco-friendly choices? Have you created or maintain an eco-efficient green space? Are you influencing others to share eco values?

Individually and collectively, we not only have the opportunity to make a difference through personal choice, we can influence others to ‘green’ space, both rural and urban. For 2009, what is your eco-resolution? Post comments and together, let’s provide tips and strategies that help move from eco-weak to eco-chic, green the landscape of our community.