On April 22, millions of people around the world will observe Earth Day. Since 1970, this annual day of education and activism has helped to raise awareness of the dangers the planet faces from human activity. In recent years, addressing climate change has been a chief focus of Earth Day. 

This year, Earth Day organizers are asking us to think about our “foodprint.” That refers to the environmental impact of our food, including the resources and energy that go into producing it, along with the greenhouse gases emitted while transporting it to stores.

It’s easy enough to focus on our foodprint on Earth Day. But will we continue to be as aware of it on the other 364 days of the year? This cartoon plays up that contrast. Study it, then answer the questions.

1. How does the cartoon personify an object or idea, treating it as if it were human?

2. What is different about the foodprints in the cartoon’s two panels?

3. How are specific details used to cast a different mood in each of the panels?

4. How would you sum up the cartoon’s overall message?