Damming beavers are slowly changing the world
A study found that beaver populations have grown dramatically, damming up 42,000 square kilometres of aquatic pond areas and increasing methane emissions by 15 percent each year
World Population
Articles tagged with World Population
Arabian Sea humpback whale population may have been isolated for about 70,000 years
A study published in PLOS ONE found that a humpback whale population in the Arabian Sea has been isolated for approximately 70,000 years. The population is highly distinct from other global populations, with low genetic diversity and abundance estimates, raising concerns about its survival.
Arabian Sea humpback whales isolated for 70,000 years
A recent study reveals the Arabian Sea humpback whale population has remained separate from other humpback whales for approximately 70,000 years. This genetic isolation may be linked to glacial episodes and asynchronous breeding cycles, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
Homeless, mentally ill women face vicious cycle in India
A study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine researcher Anita Rao found that homeless, mentally ill women in India suffer from a vicious cycle of homelessness and mental illness relapse. The study highlights the need for a balance between reintegrating women with their families and achieving psychiatric remission.
The Lancet: 'Aging well' must be a global priority
As people live longer, soaring levels of chronic illness and diminished wellbeing threaten the quality of life of older people. Strategies are needed to prevent and manage chronic conditions through affordable healthcare and social environment changes.
Giant tortoises gain a foothold on a Galapagos Island
A population of giant tortoises has recovered on the Galapagos island of Española, with over 1,000 breeding and restoring some ecological damage. However, more work is needed to fully recover the ecosystem upon which the tortoises and other rare species depend.
Dangerous blood clots: A serious global problem
Annual incidences of venous thromboembolism range from 0.75 to 2.69 per 1,000 individuals globally. Hospital-acquired cases contribute significantly to years lost due to ill-health.
Third of countries struggling to meet the needs of aging population
The Global AgeWatch Index highlights disparities in the wellbeing of over-60s worldwide, with Norway and Sweden leading the top five. Many countries, particularly in low-income regions, face challenges in providing adequate support for their aging populations.
World population to keep growing this century, hit 11 billion by 2100
A new study predicts that world population will continue to grow throughout the 21st century, reaching 11 billion by 2100. Most of the anticipated growth is expected to occur in Africa, where population is projected to quadruple from around 1 billion today.
Diet change -- A solution to reduce water use?
Researchers at Aalto University found that shifting to vegetarian diets can reduce green water use by up to 21% and blue water use by up to 14%. This could secure food supply for an additional 1.8 billion people without increasing water resources.
Insights on whale shark populations and evidence for their historic rise and recent decline
Research suggests two distinct whale shark populations exist in the Indo-Pacific and Atlantic Ocean with minimal mixing. Genetic diversity at Ningaloo Reef in Australia has declined over five consecutive years, potentially indicating a recent bottleneck.
The next food revolution
According to Doug Rauch, one-third to 40% of all food grown is never consumed due to expiration dates and infrastructure issues. The Daily Table, a new restaurant and store, aims to reduce food waste by offering expired produce at reduced prices.
Counterterrorism, ethics, and global health
The war on terror is incorporating medicine into warfare, undermining population health and exacerbating global health inequities. Humanitarian and health workers face profound moral distress due to being treated as tools in the war on terror.
Water from improved sources is not consistently safe
A comprehensive review found that improved water sources in low- and middle-income countries often contain fecal contamination. The study's findings suggest a large proportion of the world's population uses unsafe water, highlighting the need for alternative indicators of safe water.
Lactase persistence alleles reveal ancestry of southern African Khoe pastoralists
A study published in Current Biology found that lactase persistence variants were at medium frequencies among the Khoe people, but very low or absent among San hunter-gatherers. The research suggests that pastoralist practices were brought to southern Africa by a small group of migrants from eastern Africa.
Cultural world heritage threatened by climate change
A new study by Ben Marzeion and Anders Levermann finds that global warming will put 136 cultural monuments at risk, including historical cities like Bruges, Naples, and Istanbul. Sea-level rise will impact not only coastal areas but also regions currently populated by millions of people, leading to the loss of culture and heritage.
SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 4, 2014
Population bomb may be defused, but research reveals ticking household bomb
Research reveals a long-term hidden threat to the environment: shrinking households. A study by Michigan State University found that as global household size declines, it will double the number of homes needed per-capita, straining natural resources and the environment.
Global imbalances in power undermine efforts to improve health & save lives
The Commission on Global Governance for Health calls for urgent reform of global decision-making to address socioeconomic inequality and health inequity. The report identifies seven areas where political and economic injustices affect population health, including food security and transnational corporations.
'Severe reduction' in killer whale numbers during last Ice Age
A global decline in killer whale numbers occurred approximately 40,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, with a bottleneck and loss of genetic diversity. The South African population remained genetically diverse, suggesting it escaped the bottleneck due to a stable Bengeula upwelling system.
The entropy of nations
The study reveals a decrease in global energy inequality, with the distribution of per-capita energy consumption approaching an exponential law. As nations like China move up the curve, energy consumption becomes increasingly concentrated among high-consuming nations.
A new definition for old age
A groundbreaking study by IIASA researchers Warren Sanderson and Sergei Scherbov provides a new framework for measuring aging based on multiple characteristics. The study offers a more realistic view of population aging by incorporating factors such as life expectancy, health, cognitive function, and disability rates.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateDec 12, 2013
New study identifies 5 distinct humpback whale populations in North Pacific
A new study has identified five distinct humpback whale populations in the North Pacific Ocean, which could impact conservation efforts. The research used genetic analysis to determine population differences and migratory patterns.
Population Council awarded flagship family planning implementation science project by USAID
The Population Council has been awarded a flagship project by USAID to generate evidence for strengthening family planning and reproductive health services. The EVIDENCE project will address critical challenges in scaling up quality programs, including financing, contraceptive access, and social norms.
Current pledges put over 600 million people at risk of higher water scarcity
A new study warns that current global climate change pledges will lead to increased water scarcity, affecting 668 million people worldwide. The research also reveals that a further 11% of the global population will live in water-scarce river basins or experience aggravated effects in existing regions.
Science supporting abundant, nourishing food for a growing civilization
Advances in agricultural technology have led to the removal of 1.5 billion pounds of unhealthy saturated and trans fats from North American diets since 2006. Scientists are working to meet the increasing demand for protein-rich foods while addressing challenges such as climate change, soil erosion, and evolving pests and diseases.
Is war really disappearing? A new analysis suggests not
A new study by Bear Braumoeller at Ohio State University suggests that while conflict may be less common, the ability of countries to wage war has decreased over time. The analysis found no clear trend indicating a decrease in nations' willingness to go to war.
Male Holocaust survivors have a longer life-expectancy
A recent study found that male Holocaust survivors lived an average of 14 months longer than non-survivors, with a significant difference in life-expectancy among men aged 10-20 during the war. The researchers suggest that the 'Posttraumatic Growth' phenomenon may have contributed to their longevity.
Seismic gap outside of Istanbul
Researchers have identified a 30km-long fault zone near Istanbul as a potential starting point for a strong earthquake. The area, located just 15-20km from the historic city center, has shown no seismic activity in recent years.
World population could be nearly 11 billion by 2100, UW research shows
A new statistical analysis projects the world population could reach nearly 11 billion by 2100, driven by fertility in Africa. The current African population is expected to nearly quadruple to 4.2 billion by 2100, with Nigeria experiencing the largest increase.
Report shows billions worldwide suffer from major tooth decay
The report shows that over half the global population suffers from untreated tooth decay or cavities, with severe periodontitis and caries on the rise. The study reveals a significant increase in oral conditions globally between 1990 and 2010, primarily due to population growth and ageing.
A model predicts that the world's populations will stop growing in 2050
A mathematical model predicts that the world's population will stop growing around 2050. The study used data from the United Nations and applied rate equations to describe the evolution of a two-level system. This prediction aligns with lower estimates provided by the UN, suggesting a possible decline in population numbers.
To feed the world, give women equal rights
To feed the world, Paul Ehrlich advocates for a bottom-up movement focusing on agricultural and demographic planning to address overpopulation and overconsumption. Giving women equal rights is a crucial first step in this effort.
Jellyfish experts show increased blooms are a consequence of periodic global fluctuations
Recent media reports have created a perception of a global increase in jellyfish. However, a new study suggests that these trends may be overstated. The research found that global jellyfish populations undergo concurrent fluctuations with successive decadal periods of rise and fall.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2012
Chinese scientists discover evidence of giant panda's population history and local adaptation
Researchers reconstructed giant panda's continuous population history from origin to present, revealing global climate change as primary driver of fluctuations. Human activities likely underlie recent population divergence and decline, with local adaptations identified in sensory system genes.
Tracking pollution from outer space
A Tel Aviv University team uses NASA satellites to measure pollution hovering over world's megacities, tracking pollution trends for 189 megacities. The method provides standardized global testing of pollution levels, holding countries accountable for their emissions and encouraging environmentally friendly practices.
SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Climate Change·DateNov 27, 2012
What are the biggest challenges to global democracy?
Experts analyze the biggest threats to democracy, including complacency and the erosion of democratic norms. International leaders share their personal experiences and insights on sustaining democracy in war-torn nations.
Equitable approach the best way to rapidly increase overall maternal and child health coverage
Countries prioritizing poorest groups show fastest progress in increasing maternal and child health coverage. Lead author highlights importance of equity in assessing overall coverage progress.
Premier global health journal, The Lancet, releases series on universal health coverage
The Lancet's new series on universal health coverage (UHC) examines its effects on population health, government involvement, and progress in low-income countries. UHC is recognized as a key concept for improving health and increasing societal resilience.
Global warming favors proliferation of toxic cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria populations are increasing globally due to global warming, producing more toxins that harm humans and the environment. In Spain, toxic cyanobacteria blooms in wetlands have been linked to high mortality rates among wildlife and potential human health risks.
Pandemic flu deaths could be fifteen times higher than previously reported
Researchers estimate that pandemic flu deaths were 15 times higher than reported, with 80% of cases occurring in people under 65 years old. The study suggests a significant human toll and highlights the need for improved influenza disease burden modelling globally.
Population displacement during disasters predicted using mobile data
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used mobile data to predict population movements after a disaster, improving aid delivery accuracy. By analyzing patterns in anonymous user locations before and after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, they were able to accurately forecast people's whereabouts with 85% probability.
Physics to tackle how food is cooked in future
A growing population faces challenges of feeding itself through cleaner and more efficient methods. Innovations in flameless cooking, such as the Oorja stove, offer promising solutions. Researchers are exploring new technologies to reduce costs and increase accessibility, aiming to generate 100W of electrical power from confined gas.
Jellyfish on the rise: UBC study
A global study by University of British Columbia researchers found increasing jellyfish populations in 62% of the world's coastal ecosystems, including East Asia and Antarctica. The study also notes decreases in jellyfish abundance in seven per cent of coastal regions.
AGU: Small clique of nations found to dominate global trading web of food, water
A study by researchers found that a small group of countries control most of the world's freshwater trade, while regions like Africa are left out. The virtual water network has almost doubled in size since the 1980s, driven by globalization and economic factors.
Diet may be affecting rhino reproduction
Researchers at San Diego Zoo find phytoestrogens in rhino diet linked to reproductive failure. The study compares captive populations with varying diets, revealing a key difference between successful and struggling reproduction.
Road map provides insight to urbanization phenomenon
A study of 200 years of road network data in Groane reveals the factors driving urbanization, including exploration and densification. The research shows that roads play a fundamental role in urban development, with central streets remaining stable over time.
A research challenges the theories on the global increase in jellyfish population
A new research study has found that jellyfish populations have increased in some regions but decreased or fluctuated in others, contradicting previous theories. The study's lead researcher hopes to shed light on the issue by analyzing a global database of jellyfish data since 1750.
Turtles' mating habits protect against effects of climate change
A study on marine turtle mating patterns reveals that a population of endangered green turtles in Northern Cyprus is protected from the disproportionate number of females being born due to global warming. The researchers found a large number of males siring offspring with multiple females, reducing the risk of inbreeding.
Marine mammals on the menu in many parts of world
A new global study found that humans have consumed at least 87 different marine mammal species since 1990, with many being caught accidentally as bycatch in fishing nets. The study highlights the urgent need for better monitoring and conservation efforts to protect these iconic species.
Conserving biodiversity could benefit the world's poor
A global analysis finds that over half the world's poorest people benefit from ecosystem services in areas prioritized for conservation. Ensuring fair payments to conservation stewards could increase benefits by 50% and amount to $1 per person per day for 330 million people.
New study provides comprehensive view of the status of Atlantic bluefin tuna
A new model combining biological data and fisheries catch records indicates that fishing in one side of the Atlantic Ocean affects the other. The study shows that eastern bluefin populations are declining due to high levels of fishing in the Mediterranean Sea, while western populations are also depleted. The model suggests that recover...
IHME develops fast, affordable ways for countries to better identify causes of death in populations
A new collection of research by IHME provides innovative automated tools for analyzing verbal autopsies, which can be used in countries without vital registration systems. The Random Forest method outperforms traditional physician review and is faster, cheaper, and more accurate.
What defines life satisfaction for consumers living in poverty?
A new study found that consumers living in poverty have little hope of achieving life satisfaction due to extreme material conditions. The research, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, highlights the pervasive and hopeless nature of individuals living in absolute poverty.
The Murcian flower has been 'revived' after 100 years
The Murcian flower has been studied in detail for the first time in nearly a century. Researchers have found that it is critically endangered due to low reproductive success and high mortality rates during the seedling stage. A restoration plan is underway to preserve this unique species.
Why does Japan have the highest life expectancy?
Rapid declines in infectious disease and stroke mortality enabled by salt reduction campaigns, improved healthcare technologies, and universal health insurance coverage have contributed to Japan's exceptional longevity. The country faces new challenges due to an aging population and rising healthcare costs.
The future for Japanese health: human-security based reforms, more power for local government, improving quality, emphasis on global health, and effectively dealing with the Fukushima aftermath
The Lancet Series proposes human-security based reforms to maintain Japan's universal health coverage. Local governments must take more responsibility for healthcare resources and funding, while consolidated institutions will improve physician quality and provide opportunities for domestic and global health experts to interact.
World population to surpass 7 billion in 2011
The world's population is expected to surpass 7 billion in 2011, with a projected increase of 2.3 billion people by 2050. Most of this growth will occur in less developed regions, including Africa, posing significant challenges for food, water, housing, and energy supply.
Double jeopardy: Tuna and billfish
An international team of scientists assesses the population status of several fish species, classifying seven as threatened with extinction and four as 'near threatened' for the IUCN Red List. The study highlights the need to protect against overexploitation driven by high prices, which are putting pressure on global fish populations.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2011
Gray whales likely survived the Ice Ages by changing their diets
A study suggests gray whales thrived during glacial periods with diverse food sources, supporting higher population estimates than today. Researchers analyzed California gray whale responses to climate change over 120,000 years.
Fighting massive declines in frog populations with bacteria and fungicides
Researchers from the University of Zurich propose using bacteria and fungicides to fight the chytrid fungus, a major killer of amphibians worldwide. The study suggests two promising methods: using skin-borne bacteria to block the fungus or treating infected frogs with fungicides.