Fallacy 9: The global population must be reduced if we are to tackle climate change
Description
The challenge of a growing global population is frequently linked to the threat of climate change. This is not surprising as a growing population will increase the demand for consumer goods and energy. This will increase the pressure on natural resources, and a growing energy demand is likely to accelerate the release of CO2 into the atmosphere.
The challenges presented by population growth are particularly relevant on the continent of Africa, where the population is predicted to double within the next 30 years. How can highly developed economies be expected to tackle climate change if less developed economies are expanding so rapidly? This podcast examines the complex interdependencies between population growth, economic wealth and climate change.