World Population Day: Effects of Growing Population and Measures to be Taken

July 11^th is world population day. It is a day to create awareness on population issues and its effect on development and environment. Simple measures can solve some major problems faced by society and environment. Keep reading to know how you can make a difference in the betterment of society.

In 1987, the world population reached about 5 billion. In the same year, the governing council of United Nations celebrated the World Population Day. The world population has reached 7.2 billion in March 2015 and this growing population poses many challenges to the world.

Effects of over population

Each day, 1 billion people have no access to food and water. Also, many people in the developing countries are becoming illiterate. Most of them get their children married at young age which increases the chances of giving birth to more kids.

The other effects are as follows:

Depletion of natural resources: Earth provides natural resources like coal, fossil fuels etc in limited amounts. As many people use the resources, there is a shortage for the resources. Moreover, people cut down trees, hunt wild animals and cause pollution which further depletes the resources.
Negative effects on environment: As many people use vehicles, the air pollution has increased. Also, many industries let out harmful chemicals in air and water which pollutes the environment. Rise in carbon dioxide and methane levels emitted from cars, cement production etc lead to increase in overall temperature of earth’s atmosphere. This in turn leads to melting of ice caps and rise in sea level. This phenomenon is known as global warming.
Rise in unemployment: The rise in population significantly leads to rise in unemployment.
High cost of living: The amount of products and services are certain in number. When the population increases, more demand would be present than supply. Hence, the prices of products and services would increase.
Conflicts and wars: Overpopulation will put pressure on government to use more resources available. There have been conflicts over water to meet need of water among countries.

Measures to be taken to control overpopulation

As the population is growing day by day, people should be made aware of the ill effects it has on society and environment. They should be explained how family planning can help in controlling the ill effects. People should be taught to give birth to one or two children at the most. They should be taught about the challenges of having four to five children. They should be made aware about various safe sex techniques and contraceptive methods to avoid undesirable pregnancy.
Opt for local food which will reduce the transportation costs and buy only as much as you can eat.
Avoid plastic carry bags. Opt for carry bags made of jute or other environment-friendly materials.
Switch off the electronic appliances when not in use.
Use environmental friendly modes of transport like bicycle. For long distance travel, prefer bus, train etc.
Switch off your vehicles when you are stuck at traffic signals.
Repair leaking taps at home if any to save water.

Implement the simple measures mentioned above and make the world a healthier place to live in. Through better family planning, one can provide better education and facilities to their children. For more information on family planning, consult a gynaecologist and family practice doctor online at eVaidya now!