LAVINIA PERUMAL
SOUTH AFRICA
'I'm not sure population growth or even consumption are true reflections of the actual problem. We face a deeper struggle. Whether it is the climate crisis or a biodiversity one, any effective mitigation and adaptation will require us to tackle the injustices of the past and present. We must recognize its role in the problems we face as a society. The focus on population growth may sidetrack from the real issues.
Does population growth sit at the core of our problems? Perhaps greed is a bigger issue. The vaccine situation is a clear example, is it that we do not have enough vaccines or is it because some countries have more than they need? Either way, there is a need for redistribution, reparations, and accountability.
I believe one way to start is by investing in women and children. Empowering women and children will have long lasting effects that will benefit both society and nature.'