When examining the issue of population growth, it becomes clear that the world is facing significant challenges. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) predicts that the global population will increase by one billion within the next twelve years. Currently, the estimated population stands at 7.2 billion people (UNFPA). Such rapid growth raises concerns about the Earth’s ability to sustain such a large population.
One of the main causes of population growth is the lack of family planning. Irresponsible reproduction, driven by perceived benefits provided by some countries to households with large families, contributes to the problem. In the United States, there are systems in place to assist struggling families, but some individuals exploit these systems for personal gain. By having more children, they can receive tax rewards, welfare benefits, and food stamps. Unfortunately, this can create a cycle where people rely on government assistance instead of working towards self-sufficiency.
NASC 1001S Week 2 Assignment
The intention behind these support systems is to help struggling families, but when taken advantage of, it strains the government’s resources. If a significant portion of the population consistently takes advantage of these benefits, it puts a strain on the economy, leading to rising taxes and food prices. This imbalance between supply and demand can have negative consequences. Enger and Smith (2008) explain that a society’s impact on its resources is influenced by factors such as land availability, population size, resource consumption per person, and environmental damage caused by resource use.
While the United States struggles with uncontrolled population growth, China has implemented policies to regulate population size. China enforces procreation limits, allowing each family to have only one child unless they obtain permission from the government. Although this approach may seem unfair or a violation of human rights to some, it has been effective in controlling population growth in China. The government believes that families should contribute to the country’s prosperity and stand independently without relying heavily on government assistance.
NASC 1001S Week 2 Assignment
China and the United States are considered developed nations, as they can sustain their populations with the available resources. However, less developed nations, particularly those in Africa, face significant challenges.
Factors such as high fertility rates, limited agricultural and rural development, aid effectiveness, climate change, economic policies, and debt make it difficult for these countries to sustain their populations. Wars, genocides, and widespread poverty further exacerbate the problem, as resources become scarce and unsuitable to meet the population’s needs.
NASC 1001S Week 2 Assignment
To address these population challenges, education and awareness are key. Countries should invest in public education campaigns to promote family planning and responsible reproduction. The United States, in particular, would benefit from implementing measures to control population growth and promote sustainability. By educating the public on the benefits of controlling population growth, individuals can better understand the relationship between population growth and the well-being of the Earth.
References:
Enger, E. D., & Smith, B. F. (2012). Environmental science. (13th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill. UNFPA. (n.d.). Trends in total population. Retrieved from http://www.unfpa.org/pds/trends.htm. United Nations. (n.d.). Overcoming obstacles to family planning in the least developed countries. Retrieved from http://www.un.org/esa/population/publications/pop_challenges/Population_Challenges.pdf.
Minnesota House of Representatives. (n.d.). TANF long-term stayers in Minnesota. Retrieved from http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hrd/pubs/longstay.pdf.
