An Analysis of interlinkages between economy, population, and environment

Abstract

This article explores an understanding of dynamic and complex interlinkages between the economy, population, and environment. The rising population and economic growth levels have led to enormous levels of waste generation, pollution, and environmental degradation. There is a growing realization today that the consequences of an unabated population increase may likely upset the balance between people and resources, their hopes, aspirations, opportunities, and health. The overall quality of life has been found to be suffering even in some of the world’s richest countries. In the wake of increasing signs of deterioration in the natural environment, the quality of life in poor countries remains subjected to degradation by a failure to meet people’s minimum basic needs. Population growth and environmental challenges are linked, making remedies for each unlikely to work. Sustainable growth and environmental protection require a holistic approach. This method addresses population growth, environmental issues, and sustainable development’s economic, social, and ecological aspects. The issue is more complex than the mere size of the human population, despite the prevalent idea that human population growth could cause an environmental disaster on the planet. The new path needs to focus on values, ethics, morality, and clarity of goals of human life. The good life can be built not only by the accumulation of wealth but by ensuring the well-being of all. The livelihood of the poor depends directly on clean air, rich topsoil, and pure water. These basic natural resources need to be conserved to ensure social equity and the welfare of all. Economic growth today could be termed as a march from “self-reliance” to “reliance” as large numbers of people are deprived of basic necessities of life while a small proportion of the wealthy are leading a life of opulence and over-consumption. The entire development process, growth, and governance structures need “demystification, democratization, and decentralization.” Using economic instruments, adopting green technologies, clean products, and restoring natural resources could improve environmental quality. In the context of the above, the research paper to be presented would highlight the issues relating to environmental degradation and emphasize the concept of the green economy in detail.