AP Environmental Science
Advanced Placement Environmental Science examining environmental systems and human impact.
Human Population and Resource Use
How Humans Affect the Environment
As the human population grows, so does our use of natural resources. Understanding population dynamics helps us plan for a sustainable future.
Population Growth
The world’s population is over 8 billion and still rising. This growth puts pressure on land, water, and energy resources.
Resource Consumption
- Renewable Resources: Like solar energy and forests, can be replenished.
- Nonrenewable Resources: Like oil and minerals, are finite.
Carrying Capacity
Earth has a limit to how many people it can sustainably support, called its carrying capacity.
The Impact of Our Choices
Individual and collective choices—like eating less meat or conserving water—can have positive effects on the planet’s resources.
Examples
Urban areas expand into wildlife habitats, leading to habitat loss.
Overfishing reduces fish populations and affects ocean ecosystems.
In a Nutshell
Population growth and resource use are key drivers of environmental change.