An exergy footprint metric normalized to US exergy consumption per capita

An exergy footprint metric is proposed that combines the basic structure of carbon footprints with exergy analysis. A streamlined exergy calculator is developed for individuals and businesses with normalization to the annual US exergy consumption per capita. The total exergy consumption of the American economy is calculated following basic techniques used in the exergy analysis of several other countries. The underlying premise is to provide a metric that easy to use and understand while encompassing broad resource consumption, including energy, materials, water and food. The methodology is demonstrated using a typical individual consumption pattern and compared with the results from a traditional carbon footprint calculator. Consequently, outcomes can be benchmarked, areas for improvements identified, and performance monitored and managed.