Student Article High School Science Journal Author: Kim Pham

Overpopulation: Thank You for Not Breeding

July 12, 2006

Overpopulation has become, more than ever, an increasing problem over the past years. Overpopulation has always been an issue that each country must face; however, many individuals are currently becoming aware of the consequences related with the crisis. We see many effects of overpopulation everyday either through the news or by first-hand experience, like food shortage, air pollution, water pollution, the destruction of plant and animal habitat, global warming, immigration, and many other environmental and economical effects. The degradation of the environment and of the economy of many countries is bound to increase as the population continues to grow. If the population increases at the current rate, it will double to 11 billion by 2035. In other words, our surroundings and the commodities we use and enjoy may be non-existent or limited in 33 years. Overpopulation is not a problem we can ignore for we, if not already, will be greatly affected by the damages overpopulation causes.

One might ask, what causes overpopulation? It is simple. Overpopulation is caused by families having too many children or there is an increase in the number of women having a child. The solution to the issue is just as simple as the explanation of the causes of the problem itself. To impede the rapidly growing crisis, we should have women limit the number of children they may bear, practice the use of birth control, delay the number of years between the births of each child, and breast feed. Also, as a community, we should educate women, if not already educated, about the personal and physical effects of having an abundant amount of children versus a limited amount of children.

Each individual is able to contribute to or help cease overpopulation. We should collectively focus on either creating a balance or switching the majority number from individuals whom are contributors to overpopulation to individuals whom will help control overpopulation. By controlling the expanding number of inhabitants on earth, we will not only elevate many of the burdens associated with the issue, but we will also help preserve the environment and our natural resources for our generation and for future generations as well.

 
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