Seventeenth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

While researchers increasingly point to small family size as an important component for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the idea remains controversial. In large part this is because it suggests population “control” to many, raising the specter of coercion, shaming and the instrumentalization of women’s childbearing. Yet there are well understood strategies with proven immediate benefits for human health and relationships that will tend toward smaller families, slower population growth and through these and other paths a more environmentally sustainable future. This study considers the role of reproductive health, including family planning, gender equality, and the advancement of comprehensive sexuality education in promoting a better present and future.