Message #49411

[Jitendra Hydonus]

ased on current scientific understanding and environmental studies regarding Earth's carrying capacity, there is no single consensus on the exact number for the ideal population, but many experts suggest a significantly lower number than today's 8 billion+ to ensure long-term sustainability and quality of life.
Here are the key perspectives on what the Earth's population should be:

Sustainability Goal (1.5 to 2 Billion): Some studies, such as those often cited by the organization Population Matters (formerly the Optimum Population Trust), suggest that for a completely sustainable environment where everyone enjoys a high standard of living similar to Europe, the global population should ideally be between 1.5 and 2 billion people.

Reduced Consumption Goal (500 Million to 1 Billion): Other studies focusing on a high quality of life without depleting natural resources estimate that the ideal, sustainable population should be lower, ranging from 500 million to 1 billion people.

Current Reality vs. Future Peak: The current world population is over 8 billion and is expected to peak around 10.4 billion in the 2080s.
The Problem is Consumption: Experts note that overpopulation is not just about the number of people, but consumption rates, waste, and carbon footprints. Many argue that overpopulation exists because we are damaging the environment faster than it can recover.
Alternative Perspective: Some views, such as those from the Kabbalah, argue that the population isn't the problem, but rather how people treat each other. They suggest that a higher population can thrive if humanity moves beyond selfishness and connects positively, decreasing the suffering that typically comes with overpopulation.
The World Economic Forum
The World Economic Forum
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In summary, experts largely believe the Earth is currently overpopulated for its long-term ecological health, often advocating for a future with a population significantly lower than the current one to allow for a high standard of living and sustainability.