You can not change what you have not measured!  This is the concept behind the environmental footprint measurement for countries and has been adapted and applied to homeowners.  Individuals will be able to calculate their footprint on Earth by tabulating the amount of consumption and generation of waste products.  By knowing this you will be able to see how changes in recycling energy consumption and general buying habits can help improve environmental impacts we all have on the planet.  A great family project to help everyone of all ages learn how to make better choices.

Susan Quincy is an environmental educator for the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Agency and is stationed at the Kellogg Environmental Center in Derby, CT.  She provides workshops, programs and information to school age children, professional educators and general public around the state.