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Top PMC Blogs of 2024: Overpopulation, Women’s Rights, Entertainment Education & Global Sustainability

Cody Peluso, Aziah Kamari Pless Jan 16, 2025

Step into a world of transformation and advocacy as Population Media Center (PMC) continues to lead the way in shaping narratives that drive meaningful change. For over 25 years, PMC has been a catalyst for progress, and as we move into 2025, we’re reflecting on the powerful work that has inspired audiences and sparked global conversations.

This year, we revisit the most compelling stories and insights that defined our mission in 2024—tackling the urgent challenges of overpopulation, championing the rights of women and girls, and charting pathways toward global sustainability. These blogs are more than just words; they’re a testament to PMC’s unwavering dedication to creating a sustainable, equitable, and empowered world.

Join us as we explore these impactful pieces that continue to shape the future, and let them inspire you to be part of the change we’re working to create every day.

POPULATION AND ECONOMICS

The assertion that rapid rates of population growth somehow stimulate economic growth has been made by economists for a long time but achieved prominence during the Reagan Administration. As advocated by Julian Simon, Malcolm Forbes Jr., and others, the contention is that rapid rates of population growth stimulate consumerism and that the added demand fuels economic growth.

The opposite may well be true. In the 20th century, no nation has made much progress in the transition from “developing” to “developed” until it first brought its population growth under control.

Read more now to dive deeper into the relationship between population growth and economic development—and why this debate is more critical than ever.

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WHAT CAUSES OVERCONSUMPTION AND EARTH OVERSHOOT?

Earth Overshoot and overconsumption are critical concepts highlighting humanity’s unsustainable use of natural resources, surpassing the Earth’s capacity to regenerate. This phenomenon leads to the depletion of natural ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and the exacerbation of climate change. Earth Overshoot Day, calculated annually by the Global Footprint Network, marks the point when humanity exhausts the planet’s bio-capacity within a calendar year. It’s a stark reminder of the urgent need to reassess our consumption patterns, promote sustainable practices, and foster environmental stewardship to ensure a harmonious coexistence with the planet’s finite resources, biodiversity, and wildlife. Learn More

“It’s a question of women’s liberation, frankly…Higher levels of education lead to lower fertility rates. Who could possibly claim to be against educating girls – and if they are, why?”

– Phoebe Bernard

ENDING THE PATRIARCHY: A PATHWAY TO EQUALITY AND REGENERATION

In the ongoing dialogue about societal structures and human rights, the concepts of patriarchy, matriarchy, and feminism have emerged as focal points for discussion and advocacy. As we navigate the complexities of gender inequality and social justice, it becomes imperative to explore the transition from patriarchal norms to matriarchal paradigms, highlighting the benefits of such a shift for the rights of women and girls, as well as for all living beings as a whole.

Women and girls are subjected to systemic discrimination, limited opportunities, and gender-based violence, reinforcing the patriarchal grip on power dynamics

Read more on our blog to delve deeper into these concepts and the transformative potential of shifting societal norms.

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INSPIRING INCLUSION ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: NEW WHITE PAPER

On International Women’s Day 2024, under the theme ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ we reflected on the countless ways women and girls have shaped our world. At Population Media Center (PMC), we proudly stood at the forefront of initiatives empowering women and challenging societal norms. For over two decades, our efforts focused on amplifying the voices of women and girls worldwide. Dive into our whitepaper to explore how we’ve driven meaningful change and why empowering women is key to creating a more inclusive future.

Download Our Whitepaper

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: TACKLING WASTE FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

In a world where over 800 million people suffer from hunger and malnutrition, the staggering reality of food waste cannot be ignored. Each year, roughly one-third of all food produced—1.3 billion tons of food suitable for human consumption—is lost or wasted. This is especially alarming as the global population continues to grow, projected to reach 8.6 billion by 2030. Feeding a larger population while reducing food waste is a challenge we can no longer afford to overlook.

Read our blog to explore the causes of food waste and how we can work together to create a more sustainable future.

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RESPONSE TO CONCERNS ABOUT LOW BIRTH RATES

Many economists argue that low birth rates may slow economic growth. However, high fertility rates in developing countries, such as Nigeria, are a major cause of poverty and stagnant economies. Contrary to economist Julian Simon’s belief that increasing fertility drives economic growth by creating more consumers, large families in these regions often struggle to afford anything beyond basic necessities. This leaves little income—on both a personal and national level—to invest in long-term growth and development. It’s also essential to recognize that a smaller population is precisely what the climate and biosphere need to ensure a habitable planet. Since the climate and biosphere are the foundations of life, they must take priority over purely economic considerations. Read more in our blog about how population dynamics impact sustainability, poverty, and the path to a more balanced future. Learn More

“In the countries that have achieved developed status in the last century, plus in all the Asian ‘Tigers,’ rapid economic development, as measured in gross national product per capita, occurred only after the country had achieved significant reductions in fertility rates.”

– PMC Founder Bill Ryerson

DISCOVERING BREAKAWAY IN PERU: CULTURAL TREASURES, COMMUNITY SPIRIT, AND BREAKAWAY’S IMPACT ON PISAC SCHOOLS

In 2024, we were thrilled to announce BREAKAWAY’s launch in Peru, where the breathtaking Andes mountains cradle the rich cultural heritage of Cusco and Pisac. Cusco, the historic heart of the Incan Empire, enchants with its cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and awe-inspiring archaeological sites. Nearby, the charming town of Pisac captivates visitors with its terraced hillsides, bustling artisan markets, and a way of life harmonized perfectly with the serene landscape. The people of this region, descendants of a proud and historical culture, embody a spirit of unity and deep respect for nature. Their traditions are woven into the mountains, creating an enduring sense of harmony and community. BREAKAWAY is honored to contribute to this legacy by supporting Pisac schools and fostering opportunities that reflect the remarkable spirit of this area. View our blog to learn more about BREAKAWAY’s incredible work in Peru and how we’re making a lasting impact in this extraordinary region!

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THE GROWING CRISIS OF CONTRACEPTIVE DESERTS

Two years after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned the constitutional right to abortion, the repercussions continue to reverberate across the country. While much of the focus has been on abortion restrictions, a quieter but equally troubling issue has emerged: the growing gap in access to contraceptive care.

With more women struggling to obtain birth control and essential reproductive health services, it’s clear that the effects of Dobbs reach far beyond abortion, creating a crisis that demands urgent attention.

Read our latest blog to learn more about the unfolding crisis and how we can address this critical challenge together.

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WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT POPULATION IS WRONG. DEBUNKING THE 5 MOST COMMON MYTHS

At Population Media Center, we believe it is important to talk about population. But at the same time, we know that most people don’t spend their days thinking about abstract global issues. They want to be healthy and happy and live well in a nice environment. And that is precisely what PMC is working on—improving people’s lives, sustainably. Read our blog to learn more about why population issues still matter and how PMC is making a difference Learn More

“Many countries of the Global North experience dropping fertility rates. Thus, their experts, the media, and the public falsely believe that ‘population explosion’ is a solved problem. However, globally, the population keeps rising. For this reason, we should see human overpopulation as a phantom menace and deal with it as such.”

– – Jan Greguš, Gynecologist and philosopher, scientific secretary of the Czech Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health

THREE MILLION PEOPLE TUNE-IN: MAKING AN IMPACT IN MEXICO

Actors, journalists, activists, influencers, and musicians gathered in Mexico City on October 15, 2024, to celebrate the much-anticipated debut of the new prime-time telenovela, Papás Por Conveniencia. The air buzzed with excitement as the scent of fresh tacos and tortas mingled with lively chatter, cameras flashed, and fans cheered outside the venue. Award-winning musicians Jesse y Joy took center stage, their smiles illuminated by the spotlight, as they prepared to deliver a live performance of the telenovela’s theme song, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. The event marked the thrilling start of a story sure to captivate audiences across the region. Read our blog to learn more about this groundbreaking show!

As we reflect on the impactful conversations sparked through our blogs in 2024, Population Media Center remains steadfast in our mission to drive dialogue on critical issues such as overpopulation, women’s rights, alternative economic models, the rights of nature, access to birth control, dismantling patriarchy, ending child marriage, and fostering global sustainability. Your engagement and feedback have been instrumental in shaping these discussions and guiding our shared vision for a better future.

As we step into 2025, we invite you to share your thoughts and ideas on the topics that resonate most with you. Your voice is essential in our ongoing efforts to address the world’s most pressing challenges.

Let’s continue this vital conversation together. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey towards a more sustainable and equitable world.