überpopulation

Überpopulation refers to a situation in which the number of people exceeds the carrying capacity of the environment or the capacity of a region to sustain living standards given resource constraints. Although closely related to population density, überpopulation emphasizes ecological, resource, and social stresses rather than mere numbers. The term is debated, with some scholars using it to describe global trends and others focusing on localized patterns linked to consumption and technology.

Causes and drivers include fertility trends, poverty, and lack of education in certain regions, which can raise population growth, while imports of resources and global trade shape pressure elsewhere. But per-capita consumption, energy use, and waste generation drive environmental impact even where population growth is modest. Urbanization and aging populations in many countries add further complexity to the dynamics.

Impacts can include overuse of land and water, soil degradation, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity when carrying capacity is exceeded. Climate change, food insecurity, and health and economic stress may follow, particularly for the poorest communities. High demand for energy and minerals can also contribute to geopolitical tensions and unequal burdens across regions.

Policy and debates encompass expanding access to education and reproductive health services, empowering women, supporting economic development, and promoting sustainable consumption and technological innovation. Critics argue that focusing on population can obscure unequal consumption and resource distribution, risk stigmatization, and neglect demand-side solutions that address how resources are used.

Measurement relies on indicators such as fertility rates, total population, ecological footprint, and biocapacity to assess pressure. There is no universal threshold; sustainability depends on how resources are used, not only how many people live on Earth.