1. to use or develop (a natural resource, area, or opportunity) excessively or beyond sustainable limits

Examples

• Many fishing companies overexploit ocean resources, leading to declining fish populations.
• The mining company was accused of overexploiting the forest without regard for environmental impact.
• Tourism can overexploit natural areas if not properly managed.
• Farmers who overexploit their soil may face reduced crop yields in future seasons.
• The government implemented new regulations to prevent companies from overexploiting water resources.
• Scientists warn that we continue to overexploit the planet’s natural resources.