Befolkningsvækst

Befolkningsvækst describes the increase in the number of individuals in a population over time. This can apply to any species, but in common usage, it most often refers to the growth of the human population. The primary drivers of population growth are birth rates and death rates. When the birth rate exceeds the death rate, the population increases. Conversely, if the death rate is higher than the birth rate, the population will decline. Migration also plays a role, with immigration (people moving into a region) increasing the population and emigration (people moving out) decreasing it.

Historically, human population growth was very slow due to high mortality rates from disease, famine, and conflict. However, advancements in medicine, sanitation, and agriculture led to a significant decline in death rates, particularly from the 18th century onwards. This, coupled with relatively high birth rates in many regions, resulted in a period of rapid and accelerating population growth, often referred to as the population explosion.

In recent decades, birth rates have declined in many parts of the world, especially in developed countries. This has led to a slowing of global population growth. However, some regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, continue to experience high birth rates and substantial population increases. The future trajectory of global population growth is a subject of ongoing study and debate, with projections varying based on assumptions about fertility rates, mortality, and migration. Factors such as access to education, healthcare, and economic development are closely linked to population dynamics.