Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Overharvesting refers to the excessive removal or exploitation of natural resources beyond their sustainable limits, leading to depletion or extinction.
Related terms
Sustainable harvesting: Sustainable harvesting is the practice of using natural resources in a way that ensures their availability for future generations.
Tragedy of the commons: The tragedy of the commons refers to a situation where individuals exploit shared resources for their own benefit, leading to depletion or degradation of those resources.