In: Biology
Human population size underlies nearly every environmental problem that the planet faces. The environmental problems I am referring to are global warming, deforestation, water and air pollution to name a few. China is noteworthy in establishing limits on the number of children a couple can have as a way of limiting population growth in their nation. Should we consider similar measures in the United States given the growing numbers of people in our country and the idea that natural resources are limited?
It is indeed true that anthropogenic activities have caused an irreversible damage to the nature. We have endangered not only the life of fellow species but even ours too. Population explosion is a real challenge that nations need to counter and overcome. However, the two-child and one-child policy of China is debatable.
Though, it was successful in limiting the population size in initial phases. But in the long term it proved to be counter-productive. First, such limitations are an infringement on human rights. Citizens should be allowed to reproduce when they wish to. Also, limiting the size may cause reduced work force in the long term. Then, manpower would have to be recruited from other countries. As also evident from the case of Japan, such measures lead to ageing population. Then, the country as to bear the burden of more schemes for old age people.
Implementing such measures in US should come with enough deliberation. All stakeholders must be taken into account before reaching to a final conclusion. Since, US has good health care infrastructure, there is less infant mortality. People should be encouraged to avoid unwanted births and limit children. This will ensure quality of life to them. Demographic dividend should be reaped at its full potential. Moreover, measures should be taken to preserve environment and use resources judiciously.