Today, July 11th, is World Population Day. This day focuses primarily on issues caused by such an enormous population. On the other hand, it is also important to note that our population is more diverse and unique than ever before. The estimated current world population, as of July 2022, has climbed over 7.9 billion.
Population History
In 1987, supposedly on July 11th, the world population reached 5 billion. Due to overwhelming interest in “Five Billion Day,” World Population Day was established in 1989 by the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme (UNPD). According to National Today, the world hit its first billion in 1804. The window between billions continues to shorten. Fittingly, it took some 123 years to reach 2 billion. However, it took only 33 years to jump to 3 billion. Further, it took only 29 years to sky rocket to 5 billion.
The United Nations (UN) has followed the trend of changes in fertility rates and life expectancy as a main proponent to the staggering population increase. Yes, technological and medical advancements have lead to a widespread increase in life expectancy. However, the more people on Earth, the more power and food needed to sustain all life. Climate change is devastating and descrimination and violence between ethnicities and genders has, at best, stayed as terrible as ever in the past few decades. We, as the human race, must do better.
Promote Awareness
At the end of the day, the undeniable fact is that we use some 90 billion tons of resources from the Earth each year. Do we give enough back? Then again, despite its challenges, Earth’s people are more educated and live healthier lives than every before. For those of us who live in developed nations, these issues seem easier to ignore. That has to end. The answer is in the people, in how each of us is different, and important. Here are a few good ideas to spark change:
-Research the United Nations Populations Fund
-If you post your thoughts on social media, use #worldpopulationday
-Brainstorm different ways to come together and volunteer around your community
-Donate to one of the many nonprofits that work on population issues such as Blue Planet United, Population Connection and many more
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: National Today; UN Population Fund
Image: AdobeStock
