Human Overpopulation And Waste
In the 20th century, waste production has increased ten-fold, due primarily to urbanisation, industrialisation and a rising human population.
Mankind currently produces 2 billion tonnes of waste each year. And according to a recent report by The World Bank, if current industrialisation and urbanisation trends continue, that figure will increase by a further 70% by 2050.
And man-made waste creates more than just a logistical problem; it also has a significant environmental impact. As it decomposes, it gives off methane, a toxic greenhouse gas. These gas emissions contribute significantly to climate change which is already responsible for extreme weather events such as heatwaves, excessive rainfall, destructive winds and unprecedented sea level rises.
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- This topic has 3 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 1 year, 8 months ago by
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Mankind currently produces 2 billion tonnes of waste each year. And according to a recent report by The World Bank, if current industrialisation and urbanisation trends continue, that figure will increase by a further 70% by 2050.
Is it really possible to reduce waste as the world’s population continues to grow?
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I very much doubt it. Putting recyclable rubbish in your green bin may make you feel like you’re taking responsibility, but if you have 3 or 4 children, then you’re part of the problem, not the solution. More people, more waste. It’s simple mathematics!
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I have friends in North Queensland and in their town recycling waste is just put on the local landfill along with the general waste. They are actually provided with a separate bin for recycling, but the local council doesn’t yet have a recycling facility, so dumps everything in one place. I suspect this is not unusual. But yes, less people and you have less waste to worry about.
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