Carbon Paw Print
Using a unit known as a ‘global hectare’ — a measure of the land area needed to support a certain ecological footprint, growing and manufacturing the 164kg of meat and 95kg of cereals a border collie or cocker spaniel eats every year takes about 0.84 gha. A bigger dog such as a German shepherd consumes even more — its carbon pawprint is more like 1.1 gha. That is more than the environmental footprint of the average Indian person, who uses just 0.8 gha of resources. If you are a multiple dog owner you are in even more trouble. Two big dogs are responsible for more carbon emissions than some British citizens.
By contrast a cat (hah!) needs 0.15 gha, a hamster 0.014 gha, and a canary 0.007 gha. The most carbon efficient pet is a goldfish. Its carbon finprint requires just 0.00034 gha. That’s over 3,000 fish per pooch.
From a somewhat satirical article here. Pointer at Marginal Revolution.
Can’t say that this is really something I’m ever going to feel guilty about.
Bruce, I feel so guilty, I think I’m going to go out right now and get a puppy.
Goldfish? Are you serious? I assume not.
What is the footprint for a wife? How about a kid? Where to I go to atone or confess for these transgressions.