Rapid population growth is the significant increase in the number of individuals in a population due to higher birth rates and decreased mortality rates. This phenomenon leads to a range of consequences, including limited resources, short-term food scarcity, and the need for new infrastructure such as shelter and healthcare. Rapid population growth also has serious economic implications, such as inequities in income distribution, limitations on the growth of the gross national product, pressure on agricultural production and land, and unemployment problems . The global population has experienced rapid growth over the past century, but this period of rapid growth is expected to come to an end as the world enters a new equilibrium .
Rapid population growth is a significant issue with several negative consequences. Firstly, it can lead to economic consequences such as inequities in income distribution, limitations on the growth of the gross national product, pressure on agricultural production and land, and unemployment problems . Secondly, resource limitations can occur as the demand for resources increases, leading to shortages and scarcity, which can result in limited access to basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare . Thirdly, a rapidly growing population requires the creation of new infrastructure, such as shelter, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, which can be challenging for countries to keep up with the increasing demand . Fourthly, poverty and related social circumstances, such as lack of education and access to healthcare, contribute to high population growth . Lastly, rapid population growth can lead to environmental degradation, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity, as more people consume resources and contribute to climate change . In summary, rapid population growth is a significant issue due to its potential to exacerbate economic inequalities, strain resources, and create social and environmental challenges. It is essential for countries to address these factors and implement strategies to manage population growth sustainably .
The long-term projections for global population growth indicate that the world is entering a new phase. The global population has experienced rapid growth over the past century, but this period of rapid growth is expected to come to an end. The United Nations projects that the world population will reach 8.6 billion in 2030, 9.8 billion in 2050, and 11.2 billion by 2100. However, it is important to note that the rate of population growth is expected to slow significantly over the coming decades. In fact, for the first time in modern history, the world's population is expected to virtually stop growing by the end of this century, with an annual growth of less than 0.1%. This is due in large part to falling global fertility rates. Africa is the only world region projected to have strong population growth for the rest of this century, with its population expected to increase from 1.3 billion to 4.3 billion by 2100. These projections have important implications for global development and sustainability, and they highlight the need for policies aimed at achieving the new Sustainable Development Goals.
Initiating, sponsoring, supporting, and facilitating management development activities in population, family planning, and primary health care programs can help reduce population growth and stabilize population numbers. Rapid population growth requires the creation of new infrastructure, including shelter, health care, and educational institutions. Investing in infrastructure can help manage the effects of population growth.