The Challenge



As the world population of 6.43 billion people (May, 2004) must live on the existing planetary surface (of which approximately 2/3 is covered in water) how can you provide ALL your needs (food, fibre and fuel) sustainably from just 2.6 Ha (6.5 acres) of land per person (which must be shared with any other plants and creatures you want/need to survive!)? Will you "go it alone" or join up with your friends, to access a larger area? Note that your area includes mountains, rocky areas and desert (so only about 0.1 Ha or 0.25 acres is arable) and that everything you bring in MUST be paid for immediately by production from your area.

Mathaius Wackernagel from Redefining Progress has some information about ecological footprints that you may find interesting/challenging/helpful.

Please send any ideas to Paul Harris (I am unable to offer any prizes at this stage, but will consider any offers).



Page created by Paul Harris, May 14 2004