Scientists Propose Cutting Earth’s Population to 4 Billion by 2200 to Ease Environmental Pressure

Scientists behind a new paper say the world should gently reduce its population to around four billion by 2200 to ease environmental strain. The authors argue that current population growth and high per-person consumption push ecosystems beyond sustainable limits, driving biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate impacts. They stress their approach is pro-human, not coercive, rejecting forced population control or eugenics. Instead, they point to proven drivers like expanded family planning and improved education and autonomy for girls, especially in lower-income regions.