Population and Consumption
Human population is expanding and so is our appetite for consumption. We need to find new ways to accommodate these needs within the boundaries of what our planet can provide.
Facts
World population – From 7 billion in 2011 to over 9 billion in 2050 More
Global middle class – From 1.8 billion in 2009 to 4.9 billion in 2030 More
Consumption of natural resources – 140 billion tons of minerals, ores, fossil fuels and biomass per year by 2050 (3x current consumption) More
Challenges
Resources – Intense and rising pressure
Food & water – Paradigm shift required to avoid shortages and volatility in agricultural prices
Ecosystems & biodiversity – Actions needed to reduce current pressure
Insights & Opportunities
Consumption patterns & technology – Our choices play a critical role in our ability to accommodate a growing world population
Environmental footprint – Traditional economic benchmarks to be replaced to reflect human development and take into account our environmental footprint More