Carrying capacity is a term used to describe the maximum number of individuals of a species or population that an environment can sustainably support. It is based on environmental conditions, resources availability, and other factors, such as the ability of the environment to absorb waste products. Carrying capacity is a dynamic concept and can vary with changes in environmental conditions, resource availability, and population size. Ultimately, carrying capacity can be thought of as the maximum balance point between a species and the environment in which it exists.

See also: population growth, ecological footprint, carbon pulse, planetary boundary, multipolar trap