The Ecological Footprint is an internationally adopted indicator of relative sustainability and is recognised by the UK Audit Commission. In order to assess our sustainability, we participated in an independent Ecological Footprint Analysis, conducted by 4th WORLD ECOLOGICAL DESIGN.

The report shows that our average footprint is approximately 46% of the Ecological footprint of that typical of a UK citizen. Our average Carbon footprint is 3.6 tonnes compared to the UK average of 10.92 tonnes. This well exceeds the Stern reports recommended target for 2020 of a 30% CO2 emissions cut. It in fact means that we have already achieved the 60% target cut in emissions recommended by the Report for 2050.

We scored best in the section for shelter: by using locally sourced, sustainably harvested and/or recycled building materials with low embodied energy, and because their heating fuel is sustainably harvested on-site, the dwellings have a 94% lower ecological footprint than an average conventional house.

Nevertheless, overall we are still using more than our fair share: if everyone lived and consumed like we do we'd still need 1.3 planets (it's 3 planets for the average UK citizen), so still scope to improve...