ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Ecological overshoot

Ecological overshoot is when we use more resources than the Earth can make in a sustainable way. It's like eating all the cookies in the cookie jar without leaving enough for tomorrow. When we use too many resources, we're not giving the Earth enough time to recover and make more.

Just like you need food to grow up big and strong, the Earth needs certain things to stay healthy, like clean air, clean water, and healthy soil. If we use too much of these resources, they can become polluted or run out, and then it's harder for the Earth to recover.

It's important for us to be mindful of how much we're using and to try to use resources in a sustainable way. We can recycle, conserve energy, and use eco-friendly products. That way, we can help keep the Earth healthy for ourselves and for future generations.