In the context of sustainable practices, what does 'common-pool resources' refer to?

'Common-pool resources' refer to natural or man-made resources that are shared by a community but have the characteristic of being susceptible to overuse and depletion. When individual users act in their own self-interest, they may deplete or degrade these resources faster than they can be replenished, leading to what is often referred to as the "tragedy of the commons." This concept embodies challenges such as over-harvesting, pollution, and resource depletion, which arise when multiple individuals share a resource without adequate management or regulation.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of common-pool resources. Resources that are limited to specific entities are governed differently and may not face the same challenges of overuse since access is restricted. Resources available solely for governmental use do not reflect community sharing nor the potential for individual over-harvesting. Lastly, resources that are preserved for future generations imply a focus on conservation and protection, which is contrary to the dynamics of over-harvesting that characterize common-pool resources.