It is undeniable that humankind has been rapidly growing in number over the last centuries. Therefore, it has often been pointed out as the major issue we face nowadays, due to the increasing strain we are placing both on Earth’s resources and on countries’ social and economic systems. It is also worth noting, however, that the growth of our species is the result of a number of benefits we can count on in our modern lives. Moreover, the negative consequences of such outburst could be considerably mitigated by the correct actions of responsible institutions.
First and foremost, it goes without saying that the main cause for the growing number of humans on the planet is the plummeting mortality rate. Not only kids, but also adults are perishing less than ever before, thanks to scientific advances which have made vaccines and medicine more and more accessible. Furthermore, mass starvation and wars have become less frequent too, whereas, at least in more developed parts of the world, individuals are able to consume a wider variety of food, thus having an even higher life expectancy.
Despite all these benefits, it is understandable that over eight billion people living on Earth raise concerns. For starters, this phenomenon implicates that the very things which made all of our existences possible are now in danger. After all, we are unequivocally facing an increasing shortage of energy sources, water and food, while healthcare is overwhelmed with demand from an ageing population. Is it all just a consequence of humanity’s rise, though?
It seems unfair to blame the social and economic crisis we are facing on this single factor, when for years scientists have warned us of the harmful impacts the exploitation of fossil fuels would bring about, and how much better off we would be by relying on clean electricity. Or when greater efforts should have already been done in order to make food and healthcare widely available especially in poorer societies. Having said that, a growing humankind might not need to be as damaging as we have been led to think, given that governments exert their power into making our home more liveable to everyone.