Final answer:
The carbon footprint measures carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels, while the ecological footprint is a broader concept that assesses the overall environmental impact of human activities, including land and water use for resource production and waste assimilation.Therefore, the correct response that encompasses the differences mentioned above is d) Both a and b.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term carbon footprint refers specifically to the measure of carbon emissions caused by our actions, especially in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide. This is closely tied to the consumption of fossil fuels, which increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. In contrast, an ecological footprint is a broader concept that measures the overall impact of human activities on the environment. This includes the land and water resources needed to produce the goods and services we consume, as well as to assimilate the wastes that we produce.
Therefore, the differences between the terms are:
- Carbon footprint measures carbon emissions, particularly those from the burning of fossil fuels.
- Ecological footprint measures the demand on Earth's ecosystems and includes a wider variety of factors such as resource use, waste disposal, and land usage necessary for human activities.
Option b), 'Carbon footprint measures carbon emissions, while ecological footprint measures overall resource use,' accurately captures the distinction between the two concepts, as does option c), 'Carbon footprint is a narrower concept, while ecological footprint is a broader concept.' Therefore, the correct response that encompasses the differences mentioned above is d) Both a and b.