What are GINKs?

The acronym GINKs stands for “Green Inclinations - No Kids”, referring to those who consciously decide to forego having children for environmental reasons. It’s inspired by the term DINKs of the 1980s, which meant “Double Income - No Kids”. Whereas childless couples have often been accused of being selfish in the past, GINKs choose not to form a family out of a sense of eco-responsibility. It’s not all that common to come across couples who openly identify as GINKs, but it is a growing trend and many are proud of their choice.

GINKs believe that many environmental issues are caused by the earth’s overpopulation. Indeed it’s likely our planet’s resources can’t provide for the needs of an infinite number of humans. So with a world population approaching 8 billion, some believe it’s time to slow down birth rates. Having a child contributes greatly to greenhouse gas emissions, especially in developed countries where an individual’s energy consumption is high. So there’s an environmental argument for a couple limiting the number of children they have, or not having any at all. But there’s more to it than just that.

GINKs believe that the choice to lead a child-free life should be respected just as much as having kids. Many women get fed up with being told about their biological clock, or some kind of natural urge to have children which they are supposed to feel. They’re often asked “what are you waiting for?” by friends or family. Why shouldn’t they be able to reject this so-called duty, without feeling ashamed.

Environmental journalist Lisa Hymas was one of the first women to call herself a GINK, back in 2010. She highlighted additional benefits to being child-free, such as greater financial freedom, increased leisure time and greater energy to invest in a career, friendships or romantic partnerships.

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