According to statistics on Database Earth, there was a total of 132,110,264 babies born across the globe in 2023. This is 3 million less babies born in 2000 and 11 million fewer since 2010. While many factors influence birth rates, this decline could indicate a growing fear of climate change, particularly in regions with a higher frequency rate of natural disasters occurring. As a result, this means that there would be a heightened anxiety for communities living in these regions, becoming more cautious and perhaps even fearful when planning a family.
For instance, findings by an international scientific group World Weather Attribution were published regarding the recent devastation of Hurricane Milton in Florida. They claimed that without climate change, Milton would have been a Category 2 storm instead of Category 3 hurricane. In addition to this, increased wind speeds were up to 40% more frequent due to the atmosphere warming by 1.3 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. It shows an increase in the severity and danger of climate change. This could make people more susceptible to the fear of having children in a climate-challenged world, particularly when dealing with economic difficulties.
As time goes on, we need to ensure we can inspire each other to take care of our planet and create an environment that the future generation can flourish.
When looking at current financial state, in 2023 the Child Poverty Action group’s report about the cost of raising a child in UK provided some insight into it. The report stated that there is a 24% shortfall for lone parents on a minimum wage and for a couple on minimum wage, there is an 8% shortfall. This is due to many financial cuts being made to benefits and an inflation in the cost of living. As a result, this becomes a greater financial burden as the impacts of climate change progress, especially for the families that accumulate less wealth than others.
Alternatively, it is important to explore another outlook on this issue. I believe that despite the declining birth rates, an increase in awareness regarding the impacts of climate change could perhaps foster motivation rather than fear for people to have children. By having this mindset, there is a new generation committed to addressing climate change and offering solutions to help control it. Though there are a few policies in place to help reduce our carbon footprint, there needs to be more put in place for us to have a sustainable future. As time goes on, we need to ensure we can inspire each other to take care of our planet and create an environment that the future generation can flourish.
