Earth Overshoot Day
The date in each calendar year when humanity's resource consumption exceeds Earth's annual regenerative capacity.
Formula
Earth Overshoot Day = (World Biocapacity / World Ecological Footprint) × 365
Real World
In 1970, Earth Overshoot Day fell in late December, meaning humanity was just within planetary limits; by 2024 it had shifted to 1 August, reflecting a near-doubling of resource consumption in 54 years.
Exam Focus
Quote the 2024 date (1 August) and the formula in quantitative questions; show you understand the earlier the date, the greater the overshoot.
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