Environmental Footprint
Everything we eat, purchase, use etc. is manufactured in some way or other, and uses natural and/or man made resources to make it, package it, transport it to us etc. So for everything we consume or use, a “footprint” can be worked out, that calculates the cost of the item (for example in energy use, CO 2 use etc).
Generally, locally produced goods made in a natural sustainable and renewable way have the lowest footprint. Sometimes you have to think carefully about what you purchase – for example if organically grown goods are transported halfway across the country to get to you, the energy cost of the transportation (fuel etc) outweighs the gains from the organic food.
You should take this into consideration for everything used in your home – even building materials. There are some good sites where you can calculate your footprint.
Have a look at these to try to calculate your footprint, or discuss online.