I can't figure out if I deeply respect a New York family that is committed to living a "No Impact" lifestyle for a year -- or if I think they're nuts.Either way, they are in the midst of a mind-blowing experiment that involves leaving no impact -- zero, zilch, nada -- on the planet.Among other things, this means no toilet paper -- zero, zilch, nada -- for a year. An article in the New York Times chronicles their brave new life -- and it is fascinating. Or, as the article puts it: Welcome to Walden Pond, Fifth Avenue style. And turns out that everything is a challenge to anyone who's trying not to leave behind a carbon footprint in the big city. Here are some of the ways they're accomplishing this daunting task: They'll only eat only organic foods grown within 250 miles of New York City. (They've modeled their plan after the couple who's trying the 100 Mile Diet in Vancouver.)They won't buy anything that isn't locally-grown food. They aren't producing any trash.They aren't using any paper.They won't take any carbon-fuel based transportation. (They're getting very skilled at using razor-style scooters.)Ultimately, their experiences this year will be turned into a book and movie. Meanwhile, for anyone who is as fascinated by their experience, they're keeping a blog, No Impact Man, so that the rest of us can track their day-to-day trials, tribulations, and triumphs. I can't even remotely imagine going these extremes. But I'm thrilled that these folks are willing to venture this far into living a no impact lifestyle -- and show us how it's done. We all know that it ain't easy being green -- but when people are willing to try this hard, it's downright inspiring. Photo credit: The New York Times