We've Exhausted a Year's Worth of Earth's Resources in Seven Months. Now What?

BY OLIVIER BLUM AND MATHIS WACKERNAGEL
Aug 12, 2021 9:25 AM ET
Every year, the world stands by for Earth Overshoot Day, which signifies the day when humanity has used up all the ecological resources our planet regenerates during the entire year.

Originally published on Corporate Knights website

Every year, the world stands by for Earth Overshoot Day, which signifies the day when humanity has used up all the ecological resources our planet regenerates during the entire year. This year, Earth Overshoot Day was marked on July 29. Meaning, just seven months into 2021 we’ve lived well beyond our ecological means, spending far more than we earn.

In October, representatives of governments from around the world will gather in Glasgow, Scotland, to try to agree on effective global actions to combat climate change. Should the 26th annual UN Climate Conference (COP26) – and a host of other events aimed at protecting our planet’s environment and biodiversity – succeed, humanity will be better equipped to prepare for a predictable future of climate change and resource constraints.

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