Ecological Footprints: The Voltage Leech

Environment   Sep 25, 2015 by Curtis Terry

Conducting a test on my ecological footprint was definately something. Results were not as surprising however when I checked my ecological footprint. I use 6.8 hectares (1.0 difference from Canadian average and 1.8 less than Calgarian average) despite how much energy I've actually used. Honestly though I can't really expect accuracy from it because it has no idea how much I really use. For example I am on my computer 13 hours a day on weekends and 8 hours every weekday. I have my PC set to performance mode (using the most voltage, for gaming purposes.)  I use my appliances everyday and leave the rice cooker on to keep the rice warm. But of course its not like I strive to break the bank with the power bills or anything. Being a part of this initiative to take action against climate change, I would need to do what I can to practice what I and many other students preach-- to make the Earth a much more sustainable place to live in. I have many ways to do so. I could ask my mother to at least try and keep the TV off while she sleeps. I can stop using the microwave if theres food I can eat that doesn't require heating. Even better, I can (and should) stop using my computer so much and go outside for a change (being the highest contributer towards the power bill). Having the full control over my energy consumption (since this is literally the biggest offender), I'll be able to help save money for ourselves and contribute to stopping climate change. This simulation is a great tool to give students the wake up call to how much of the Earth they use. It can raise awareness on what to do to contribute to stop climate change. Were about to take another huge step, fellow students. Lets go huge in this one. 

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