The Earth’s global population reached and surpassed 8.156 billion at the end of 2024.

According to the German Foundation for World Population, the number of people on the planet increased by around 82 million from the end of the previous year.

According to United Nations (UN) figures, the global population passed the eight billion mark in November 2022, and the UN forecasts it will exceed nine billion by 2037.

Despite declining growth rates in some regions, a further rise to 10 billion people is projected in the second half of this century.

According to the German Foundation, the global fertility rate, currently averaging 2.2 children per woman, marks a slight deceleration in population growth. But population experts and environmentalists are cautioning against taking any comfort from this deceleration.

Globally, the Earth’s population continues to trend upwards and the problem is particularly pronounced in Africa, where the population is projected to double within the next two decades. The African continent’s rapid expansion underscores both opportunities and challenges, including strains on infrastructure, education, healthcare systems, and the environment.

Globally, the deceleration of growth reflects demographic shifts in some regions, such as ageing populations in Europe and East Asia, which are experiencing lower birth rates and longer life expectancies.

Experts emphasise that understanding these trends is crucial if governments and policy makers are to address global challenges such as resource allocation, urbanisation, food production, and sustainability.

Submitted by Friends of Retha


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