What does over-exploitation refer to in the context of human activities?

The excessive and unsustainable extraction of natural resources

The correct answer is Option (3) –The excessive and unsustainable extraction of natural resources

In the context of human activities, over-exploitation refers to the excessive and unsustainable extraction or utilization of natural resources. This includes activities such as over-hunting, over-fishing, logging, mining, and other practices that go beyond the natural replenishment rate of the resources being exploited.

Over-exploitation is often driven by human needs and demands for various resources, including food, timber, minerals, and energy. When these resources are exploited at a rate faster than they can naturally regenerate, it can lead to depletion, degradation, and even extinction of certain species or ecosystems.

This unsustainable practice not only poses significant threats to the environment and biodiversity but also jeopardizes the availability of essential resources for present and future generations. Sustainable resource management practices, on the other hand, aim to use natural resources wisely and responsibly to ensure their availability for future generations while preserving the health and integrity of ecosystems.