What is Public trust tragedy of the commons?

The "tragedy of the commons" refers to a situation where individuals, acting in their own self-interest, deplete shared resources, leading to long-term negative consequences for the entire community. In the context of public trust, this concept highlights the challenge of managing common resources—like air, water, and public lands—where the absence of collective stewardship can result in overuse and degradation. The public trust doctrine emphasizes the government's role in protecting these resources for the benefit of current and future generations, aiming to balance individual rights with the collective good. Ultimately, it underscores the need for collaborative management to prevent resource depletion and ensure sustainability.