1.3.15—Biocapacity
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Objective
- 1.3.15
- Level
- HL
Compare Demand with Regenerative Capacity
Ecological deficit occurs when ecological footprint exceeds biocapacity—the area’s ability to regenerate resources and absorb wastes.
Compare compatible area-equivalent units. Footprint − biocapacity gives the deficit; a negative result indicates an ecological reserve.
Footprint 3.0 gha/person minus biocapacity 1.8 gives a 1.2 gha/person deficit.
A 2-unit ecological reserve; regeneration capacity exceeds estimated demand.
Biocapacity is not simply total land area; it represents productive regeneration and waste absorption.