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Our planet can no doubt do some amazing things. For centuries earth has provided us with the resources and materials for our survival. But it cannot sustain us all for much longer and is fast approaching its capacity.
Over the last two-hundred years the world population has grown exponentially. It is now estimated at 7.7 billion according to the united nations. In recent years the rapid population growth mainly stems from the development of new technologies and medicine, which have become widely accessible in the modern world. This has led to lower mortality rates and longer life expectancy among other things, but also some less desirable side effects such conflict over space and resources.
Over the last two-hundred years the world population has grown exponentially. It is now estimated at 7.7 billion according to the united nations. In recent years the rapid population growth mainly stems from the development of new technologies and medicine, which have become widely accessible in the modern world. This has led to lower mortality rates and longer life expectancy among other things, but also some less desirable side effects such conflict over space and resources.
What this means for the environment
The growth in inhabitants has brought with it some dire consequences for the environment.
Overpopulation has also led to extreme deforestation. According to national geographic, around eighty percent of the worlds land animals and plants reside in the forest. Deforestation is occurring at alarming rates and has led to severe degradation of the environment. Habitats are being destroyed and more species are becoming endangered because of the struggle to feed, find shelter and breed. The space we take for living and farming is promoting the loss of biodiversity. When trees are chopped down, the carbon they store is released into the atmosphere causing around 10% of world carbon dioxide emissions according to rainforest alliance.
More land and resources are needed to cater for our growing population. Basic necessities like food and water are in such high demand that there is already problem with supply in some areas of the world. To meet this demand over-farming is occurring, sometimes to the point of desertification. The land isn’t given the time it needs to recuperate and become fertile. Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are used to boost production, harming the quality of the soil and nearby water. This water pollution is worsened by the effects of waste and dumping, which has led to harmful toxins and plastics harming sea life. As the population has grown this has become more common due to overconsumption and for many of us, our wasteful lifestyles.
With growing numbers, resource depletion is major issue. Natural resources are being harvested for use faster than they can be replaced. Extensive use of fossil fuels is just one example of how the environment is being exploited to fuel our consumption. Overpopulation brings more demand for factories and goods like vehicles than ever before, and therefore the fossil fuels used to make them. CO2 emissions are a huge factor in global warming and climate change and consequently both have risen in recent years. Fossil fuels are a non-renewable resource because they take millions of years to form. At the rate we are using them, oil and gas could run out as soon as fifty years’ time.
What you can do
Overpopulation is difficult problem to solve on an individual basis but here are some things you can do to contribute to the solution:
The growth in inhabitants has brought with it some dire consequences for the environment.
Overpopulation has also led to extreme deforestation. According to national geographic, around eighty percent of the worlds land animals and plants reside in the forest. Deforestation is occurring at alarming rates and has led to severe degradation of the environment. Habitats are being destroyed and more species are becoming endangered because of the struggle to feed, find shelter and breed. The space we take for living and farming is promoting the loss of biodiversity. When trees are chopped down, the carbon they store is released into the atmosphere causing around 10% of world carbon dioxide emissions according to rainforest alliance.
More land and resources are needed to cater for our growing population. Basic necessities like food and water are in such high demand that there is already problem with supply in some areas of the world. To meet this demand over-farming is occurring, sometimes to the point of desertification. The land isn’t given the time it needs to recuperate and become fertile. Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are used to boost production, harming the quality of the soil and nearby water. This water pollution is worsened by the effects of waste and dumping, which has led to harmful toxins and plastics harming sea life. As the population has grown this has become more common due to overconsumption and for many of us, our wasteful lifestyles.
With growing numbers, resource depletion is major issue. Natural resources are being harvested for use faster than they can be replaced. Extensive use of fossil fuels is just one example of how the environment is being exploited to fuel our consumption. Overpopulation brings more demand for factories and goods like vehicles than ever before, and therefore the fossil fuels used to make them. CO2 emissions are a huge factor in global warming and climate change and consequently both have risen in recent years. Fossil fuels are a non-renewable resource because they take millions of years to form. At the rate we are using them, oil and gas could run out as soon as fifty years’ time.
What you can do
Overpopulation is difficult problem to solve on an individual basis but here are some things you can do to contribute to the solution:
- Help fund tree planting – Non-profit organisations like ours help plant the trees that we desperately need to combat deforestation and the destruction of habitats. Planting trees will help to absorb the greenhouse gases we all emit and give back to the environment. If you cannot afford to donate and have access to suitable outdoor space why not try planting trees at home!
- Vehicles – If everyone chose to use alternative methods of travel such as cycling or walking to work or school for even one day per week, the effects would be huge. Especially since there’s so many of us! Car pollution is a major contributor to global warming. We understand this is not always possible and cars can be really useful, but why not try more renewable alternatives such as electric or hydrogen cars. Research has shown hydrogen cars can reduce emissions up to 30%.
- Education - Tackle the issue at its core by raising awareness and educating others on the topic. If you found this article useful share it with friends and family!
