Environmental Effects Of Overpopulation

Overpopulation is mainly referred to trends such as people living longer and enjoying higher live birth rates. Overpopulation is the biggest threat we face  as human overpopulation is among the most pressing environmental issues. Overpopulation of specific locations can also result from migration. 

human population

Remarkably, the overpopulation of an area can occur without a net gain of population. It can result from a reduction in the carrying capacity of a region, such as reduced agricultural yield due to over-farming or drought. Such conditions may lead to an out-migration. 

In certain countries, the impact of migration and accumulation of the population in cities was very important, but not only with respect to demographic growth, but also in relation to wealth generation.

  • Lack of water

Overpopulation creates greater demand on the world’s freshwater supplies. As only roughly 1% of the world’s water is fresh and accessible, this creates a major issue. Some estimates state that human demand for freshwater will stand at approximately 70% of what is available on the planet by 2025. This will place those living in impoverished areas that already have limited access to such water at great risk.

  • Extinction

The effect of overpopulation on the world’s wildlife is also a major issue. As demand for land grows, so too does the destruction of natural habitats, such as forests. Some scientists warn that if present trends continue, as many as 50% of the world’s wildlife species will be at risk of extinction. Data has also been collected to show that there is a direct link between increases in human population and decreases in the number of species on the planet.

With more than 7.6 billion people on the planet, it’s easy to assume someone else will tackle and solve the issue of population and environment. Yet it is an issue that affects us all, and as such we’re all responsible for working towards a sustainable future in which everyone is able to enjoy a good quality of life without destroying the very things we rely on to survive.