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About Us

Global Footprint Network is changing how the world manages its natural resources. We offer:

Metrics

that are simple, meaningful, and scalable

Actionable Insights

about natural resource consumption and capacity

Tools

and analysis to guide informed decisions

MISSION AND VISION

Global Footprint Network, an international nonprofit organization founded by Mathis Wackernagel, Ph.D and Susan Burns in 2003, envisions a future where all can thrive within the means of our one planet.

We enable our vision through our mission: to help end ecological overshoot by making ecological limits central to decision-making.

Supported by a Global Team

We are scientists at heart. Scientists who love the outdoors. We measure everything and use data and facts to guide decisions. Optimistic and persistent, we pursue systems change to achieve global sustainability.

Our Partner Network comprises more than
70 organizations around the world.

Partners help guide our research agenda and contribute to the development of Footprint methodology and standards. They work with business, government, and individuals to make the Footprint more relevant and practical.

What does the word “footprint” mean?

Today, it’s less likely to refer to the tread mark your sneaker leaves in the dirt, and more to the imprint you’ll leave on the planet. So said New York Times writer William Safire (1929-2009) in a 2008 “On Language” column. In the column, Safire described how the concept of the Ecological Footprint was developed by University of British Columbia Professor William Rees and Global Footprint Network co-founder Mathis Wackernagel.

Join us in creating a world where people,
planet, and economies thrive.