The model of an irreversible Otto cycle using an ideal Fermi gas as the working fluid, which is called as the irreversible Fermi Otto cycle, is established in this paper. Based on the equation of state of an ideal Fermi gas, the ecological optimization performance of an irreversible Fermi Otto cycle is examined by taking an ecological optimization criterion as the objective, which consists of maximizing a function representing the best compromise between the exergy output and exergy loss (entropy production) of the cycle. The relationship between the ecological function E and the efficiency η is studied. Three special cases are discussed in detail. The results obtained herein may reveal the general performance characteristics of the irreversible Fermi Otto cycle.