How does natural resource depletion historically impact the environment, and what are some consequences observed in various societies?

Natural resource depletion happens when people use up resources like forests, water, and minerals faster than they can be replaced. Historically, this has led to significant environmental changes, such as deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. For example, when ancient societies overharvested timber for building and fuel, they often faced problems like desertification, where land becomes dry and unproductive. These environmental changes can cause food shortages and force communities to move, as seen in the collapse of the Mayan civilization, which struggled with soil depletion and water scarcity. Overall, using resources unsustainably can harm not just the environment but also the societies that depend on those resources for survival.