When was the last time you thoughtfully considered the powerful force of something as simple as population? History is full of examples of how quickly a population change can impact a nation or our world! For example, China’s one-child policy is now causing serious implications for an aged society with few children to care for their elders.
Throughout the world, population trends are constantly changing. Depending on a variety of factors – including economic conditions, education levels and access to health care – population size and distribution can change rapidly.
For example, while the global population is growing overall, the population in some countries is shrinking. Birth rates are falling in many parts of the world, while life expectancy is increasing. In some countries, such as Germany, Japan and Italy, the population is actually declining due to a lower birth rate and an increase in the number of people who are dying.
In other parts of the world, such as Africa and South Asia, the population is growing quickly due to high birth rates and a decrease in the number of people who are dying. As a result, these regions are experiencing rapid population growth.
What impacts do these population changes have on our world? How do they affect economies, social systems and the environment?
Here are 17 population projections that will deeply impact our world in the decades ahead.
Jeff Suderman is a futurist, consultant, and professor who works in the field of organizational development. He partners with clients to improve culture, leadership, teamwork, organizational alignment, strategy and organizational future-readiness. He resides in Palm Desert, California. Twitter: @jlsuderman Email: jeff@jeffsuderman.com
Source: Shaping Tomorrow