This document serves as a supplement to the World Conservation Strategy (WCS) and outlines some of the critical aspects of the interaction between human populations, natural resources, and social and economic conditions. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of planning with people, and on packaging conservation programs so they are more likely to be accepted by people suffering from the effects of poverty. Critical areas of concern are addressed in sections dealing with: (1) population growth; (2) agriculture and declining food production; (3) soil erosion; (4) loss of biological diversity; (5) reduction of forests and open woodlands; (6) declining water quality; and (7) resource destruction and pollution associated with human demand for energy. The conclusions and recommendations urge every country to introduce a population policy that defines optimum size. Included are recommendations for action by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), and a glossary of terms. (TW)