Global Patterns of Human Domination

Humans dominate the planet and their influence extends
directly and indirectly to every part of the world. Global
population has reached seven billion people and is projected to
reach 8.3 billion by 2030.
Exponential increases in human population and changes in
patterns of consumption have created unprecedented pressure
on the Earth’s natural resource base. Humans and their actions
have become the main driver of global environmental change.
This section provides a snapshots that illustrate the dynamic
human footprint on the Earth and its potential impact on the
land resource.