ENVIRONMENT »» WATER POLLUTION »» CORAL REEFS »» May 30, 2022

The population of the Earth is now about 7.6 billion. Over the last 6 decades, our population has increased by about one billion people every 12 years. It is estimated that our planet can safely sustain a maximum of about 9.5 billion people before it is considered overpopulated. But there are many definitions of overpopulation. Most definitions relate to the amount of resources available to a population and the sustainability of the land on which that population resides. A United Nations report blamed overpopulation and over-consumption as the main causes of damage to Earth's ecosystems. Among other things, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) works in developing countries to improve women’s reproductive health. It provides birth control supplies and services to those in need and also treats HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. The UNFPA has been recognized for its worldwide campaign against obstetric fistula and female genital mutilation. Population control proponents say many people in developing countries want help controlling their fertility. Opponents of birth control are opposed to providing this assistance because of religious or ethical reasons. Pending Legislation: None