Global Pressures

The last time the clock chimed “century,” there were 1.6 billion humans. One hundred years later, we've passed 6 billion on our way to a predicted 10 billion by mid-century. How will earth's resources support this near doubling? Will "earthkeeping" services like water cycling, soil formation, crop pollination, and climate regulation still function? Will the good life still be possible?

Already, our actions are taking a toll:
 Percent of earth’s land mass changed by human activity: 33-50.

 Number of “dead zones ” in coastal waters as a result of industrial and agricultural runoff: 50.

 Percent of major fisheries fully exploited or depleted: 66.

 Number of people who lack access to safe drinking water: 1 billion.

 Number projected to have chronic water shortage by 2025: 3 billion.

 Current extinction rate: 1,000 times faster than the background rate. If trends continue in this century: 10,000 times faster.

 Percent of bird species already lost: 25.

 Number of alien plant species established in the United States: 2,000.