Final answer:
The large increase in demand for Earth's resources is due to population growth, technological advancements, and increasing material expectations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best explanation for the large increase in demand for Earth's resources over the past 100 years is the combination of population growth, technological advancements, and increasing material expectations. Firstly, the human population has grown exponentially, reaching 8 billion people who need resources to sustain their lives. This population growth has put a strain on Earth's resources. Secondly, advancements in technology have allowed for the development of new industries and increased labor productivity, leading to a higher demand for resources to support these industries. Lastly, there has been a shift in material expectations, with a consumer culture emphasizing disposable mentality and generating a significant amount of material flows.