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Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2024, pp. , 2024/11/14
Population and climate change
Contemporary demographic patterns differ widely between countries. The combined trajectories of population growth and the climate crisis will lead to a redistribution of people on the planet, with urbanization offering both promise and risk for efforts to mitigate climate change. While all individuals contribute to emissions, they do not do so in the same ways, and nor are they affected proportionately. In this paper, we argue for a more evidence-based use of demographic data to bolster the effectiveness of climate change mitigation and adaptation to reduce both population risks and vulnerabilities, and underscore the important role of rights-based, people-centred population policies in climate action. In doing so, we present fresh perspectives for policymakers and researchers dedicated to sustainable development. By aligning adaptation and mitigation strategies with current and future population dynamics, we can identify interventions that create more resilient, equitable and greener societies.
Keywords: Demography; Climate change adaptation; Vulnerability; Mitigation; Urbanization; Population policies ; Population dynamics
