The figure represents world population growth between 1950 and 2015. Examine the figure and use it to answer the following questions. A. When did NIR peak within this period, and what stage of the demographic transition in some regions is indicated by the shift that followed? B. In 2–3 sentences, explain why world population would continue to increase, even if the NIR is decreasing. C. In 2–3 sentences, describe one way in which data from this figure could be used to support a specific public policy initiative. Identify the initiative and connect it clearly to the data here.

Answer 1

A. The natural increase rate (NIR) peaked around the late 1960s to early 1970s. Following this peak, the demographic transition indicated a shift towards the later stages, where countries began to experience declining birth rates and higher life expectancy, signaling a move from stage 2, characterized by high birth and low death rates, to stage 3 or even stage 4, where birth rates decline significantly.

B. World population would continue to increase even if NIR is decreasing because the population momentum—the tendency for a population to continue growing due to a large number of individuals in reproductive age—means that even with lower birth rates, there are still many people having children. Additionally, improved health care and living conditions contribute to increased life expectancy, further supporting population growth despite a declining NIR.

C. One way the data from this figure could support a public policy initiative is in the area of family planning and reproductive health services. For instance, the data showing a declining NIR could be used to advocate for increased investment in education and resources for family planning initiatives in developing countries. By addressing the factors influencing declining birth rates and improving access to reproductive health, policymakers could better manage population growth and plan for sustainable development.