Too Many Humans, Dwindling Resources, and not Enough Space

This paper will address the often-overlooked subject of human overpopulation and examine the role it plays in the environmental health of our planet. Part I will define overpopulation and how it is determined, as well as briefly examine animal overpopulations and their effects on the environment. Part II will turn to human population trends, the carrying capacity of humans on earth, and the environmental consequences of human overpopulation. The environmental issues currently faced in China, India, Africa, and other densely populated areas will be explored.

Part III will analyze some of the legal solutions that have been implemented to curb human overpopulation trends and their results, with a focus on the one-child law in China and other government-sponsored programs. Part IV will propose possible solutions and the likelihood of their success.