Population sustainability overview
CSIRO research is informing the complex debate about the optimal numbers and growth rates of human populations.
- 7 July 2006 | Updated 14 October 2011
Perspectives on ‘optimal’ population levels and growth vary across society. Debate from interest groups presents well-defined arguments for various population levels and growth policies.
CSIRO is informing this debate by investigating the effects of different population levels and policies on:
- the environment
- the economy
- resource sustainability
Population analysis and futures modelling
To obtain a balanced understanding of both the positive and negative aspects of population requires an effective integration of their likely impact on natural and human systems such as the environment, the economy and society.
Our futures modelling work uses complex and holistic computer models to investigate how these areas are affected and interact under different population growth and management scenarios.
Read about CSIRO's systems modelling work for assessing development sustainability.
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Fast facts
- Understanding the effects of population and population growth is a critical scientific question for society
- Our work informs decision makers on the effects population policies may have
- CSIRO uses holistic computer modelling to investigate effects population scenarios could have on the environment, industry and society in Australia
