People in the balance. Population and natural resources at the turn of the millennium.

This document provides updates on key data regarding population growth and the state of critical natural resources in the 21st century. These updates collectively illustrate relationships between changing population size and the availability of key natural resources needed for health and well-being. It is noted that human population growth is slowing down consequently making analysts of natural resources more optimistic about their future availability. While slowing however significant growth continues meaning that more people will be sharing such finite resources as fresh water and cropland. Projections calculate that the number of people living in critically land-scarce and water-scarce countries will either double or triple by the year 2025. Global fish production and the levels of forest cover may continue to decline while per capita emissions of carbon dioxide may increase thus raising the risk of climate change by accelerating the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the global atmosphere. In view of this it is recommended that policies that contribute to the slowing of population growth such as improving access to contraceptive services education and employment be implemented continuously.