Consider This from NPR Is climate change a reason not to have kids?
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Aug 3, 2025 Dean Spears, an economist and demographer at the University of Texas – Austin, tackles the tough questions around parenthood and climate change. He argues that fears about environmental impact shouldn't deter people from having children. Instead, he highlights that declining birth rates could lead to new societal problems. Spears emphasizes that addressing climate change requires broader solutions beyond reducing population and explores the implications of these choices on innovation and childcare responsibilities.
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Declining Birth Rates Won't Solve Climate Crisis
- Global birth rates have been declining for decades and will lead to a population decline starting around the 2080s.
- This population decline will not solve climate change or environmental problems quickly enough due to timing and scale.
China Cuts Pollution Amid Growth
- China reduced severe air pollution by half despite population growth.
- This was achieved through regulation, technology, and policy rather than depopulation.
Population Growth Drives Innovation
- More people increase demand for public goods, innovation, and healthcare.
- A shrinking population could reduce the feasibility of progress in medicine and public services.
