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To download the new Norfolk Island Sustainability Report click hereFootprinting, is a resource accounting tool, a method of measuring the impacts of human activities against the natural resources available and also the ability of relevant land area to regenerate. In other words, human demand against bio-capacity.
If an organisation, country or the world population in general consumes less natural resources than can be regenerated it is said to be in 'credit' or an 'ecological reserve'. However, if the organisation / population demand exceeds the biological capacity it is
in 'ecological deficit' or 'ecological overshoot'. Earth's population today collectively overshoots its ability to regenerate in one calendar year by over 20%; taking apprcximately one year and two months to recover from human consumption.
Footprinting of an organisation, city, or the entire population of the planet gives us an assessment of the overall deficit, and helps both individuals and decision-makers manage our natural resources in a responsible manner, with a vision towards sustainability.
*Sources include Global Footprint Network www.footprintnetwork.org, Mathis Wackernagel.
Footprinting an Island
Norfolk island is set to become one of the first Islands in the South Pacific to be footprinted, with the hope that other nations will follow; particularly those nations within the Pacific region.
The Global Footprint Network is leading world research in Footprinting and in 2006, EcoNorfolk was accepted as a partner, and is using its model to develop Norfolk's footprint, working in conjunction with local organisations such as the Norfolk Island Central School and the Administration of Norfolk Island's Environment Officer.
Data collection for Norfolk's footprint has already begun to be compiled and it is hoped that the footprint information will be available sometime in the near future.
What are the benefits?
The obvious benefits will include an accurate map of Norfolk's current sustainability, areas and practices for improvement; aiding our current and future decision makers to make informed choices that will see Norfolk Island's social, and environmental uniqueness last for many more generations; to instil these critical sustainability factors into the minds of future generations.
EcoNorfolk approached Norfolk Island Central School in March 2006 to consider using the ecological footprinting as an educational discipline, and together with the support of current Principal Mr Frank Stanton will commence work on placing it into the school curriculum. The focus on sustainability with the next generation is a vital step in ensuring the preservation of Norfolk Island's natural resources and also allows the children of today to have significant input and insight into their own future.
The footprinting of Norfolk Island can also be showcased to other pacific Islands as a leading example for sustainability in our region. The footprint demonstrates social responsibility for our home and a dedication to preserving a unique culture and environment. This could also offer Norfolk Island – as well as other pacific Islands - a new and innovative tourist attraction based on 'best practice' and is a concept already supported by more than ten nations of the world.
Progress updates will be on this site when available.
How can I get my organization or community footprinted?
EcoNorfolk is now a distributor for Triple Bottom Line software (known as Bottomline3) - which is the mathematical data analysis tool (created by Sydney University's Integrated Sustainability Analysis program) which calculates footprints - and can help with your footprint. For more information click here or contact us.
To download the Triple Bottom Line brochure click here
Above photos courtesy of the Norfolk Island Tourist Bureau
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