Environmental Footprint Update

In September, I found out that if everyone were to live like I do, we would need 3.3 Earths to provide enough resources. Though this number of "earths" is on the lower side of most EF calculations, it is still an unreasonably large number that should be reduced! Besides services, the majority of my EF came from my food consumption (I eat A LOT of dairy, and frequently consume meat). The picture below represents my initial EF: 

I set out to reduce my EF by some simple goals: turning off the water while I brush my teeth, unplugging my the extension cord that connects my blow dryer/straightener when they are not in use, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and cutting out my consumption of beef.

Well, a couple months later and I have recalculated my EF only to find that it is the exact same as before...

Though I am sad to see that EF calculations do not seem to show any progress, I am confident in saying that I have personally reduced my environmental impact! Though the numbers don't say it, I now am consuming meat less, unplugging appliances when not in use, turning off running water when it is not in use, and am refraining from using the elevator. The BIGGEST impact I have had has been the simple awareness of sustainability and its role in our world today. Becoming aware of different sustainability movements has allowed me to share with my friends and family what I am learning, and become genuinely interested and mindful of what I can do as a consumer to reduce my impact. I will most definitely be able to continue these practices in my "life outside of class" and am looking forward to bringing what I've learned to the attention of others as well.