Population crisis

A campaign lead by the UN could make people all over the world aware of the link between population growth and degradation of the planet

Why not focus more on the cause of environmental degradation instead of on the ‘losing’ struggle to cope with the symptoms? It’s like mopping up when the taps are wide open.

For a fraction of the cost to sustain a growing world population, rapidly approaching 9.5 billion (but who can guarantee that it will then level off?), a campaign could be launched, lead by the UN, to make people all over the world aware of the link between population growth and degradation of the planet. 

It is time to face reality and to stop looking at large families as a blessing. Obama, with only two children, would be the perfect role model. 

Maybe aid should be tied to responsible action by the people receiving it.

How about a competition by the PE to find a suitable slogan, such as: ‘Only two to save the planet ‘.

Ian Ross, Schiedam, Holland

• Read the IMechE report on overpulation in full