The fertility rate in England and Wales has fallen for the third consecutive year, a trend seen globally, with two-thirds of the world's population now living in countries where fertility is below replacement level. This decline raises questions about whether shrinking populations are a cause for concern or an opportunity for positive adaptation.
In the second episode of a two-part series, Madeleine Finlay discusses the implications with Dean Spears, assistant professor of economics at the University of Texas at Austin, and Dr Jennifer Sciubba, chief executive of the Population Reference Bureau. They explore whether declining birth rates are truly problematic and how societies can adjust to a future with fewer children.
The experts suggest that while population decline poses challenges, such as labour shortages and ageing demographics, it also offers potential benefits, including reduced environmental pressure and improved resource allocation. Adapting to this shift may require policy changes in immigration, retirement age, and family support.
