Negative Population Growth: Advocacy for a Smaller Global Footprint
Founded in 1972, Negative Population Growth (NPG) is a United States-based non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the challenges of overpopulation. The organization was established by Don Mann, who felt that the existing group, Zero Population Growth, did not go far enough in its approach to managing human population levels.
NPG operates on the premise that the current human population exceeds the Earth's capacity to sustain it healthily. Consequently, the organization advocates for a gradual, systemic reduction in both the United States and global populations to reach what they define as optimal levels.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1972 by Don Mann.
- Core Mission: Gradual reduction of the U.S. and world population.
- U.S. Population Target: 150 to 200 million people.
- Global Population Target: 2 to 3 billion people.
- Membership: Claimed to exceed 25,000 members as of 2011.
Strategic Goals for Population Reduction
To transition toward a smaller population, NPG focuses on two primary levers: the fertility rate (the average number of children born to a woman over her lifetime) and immigration levels.
Reducing Fertility Rates
NPG promotes policies designed to lower the U.S. fertility rate to 1.5 births per woman. By encouraging a rate below the replacement level, the organization aims for a natural, gradual decline in the domestic population over time.
Adjusting Immigration Levels
In addition to fertility targets, NPG advocates for a significant reduction in immigration to the United States. While current levels exceed 1.5 million people per year, NPG proposes a limit of 100,000 to 200,000 immigrants annually to help achieve their target population size.
Comparative Population Targets
The following table summarizes the specific population and policy targets advocated by Negative Population Growth.
| Category | Current/Existing Level | NPG Target/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Total Population | Not Specified | 150 - 200 Million |
| World Total Population | Not Specified | 2 - 3 Billion |
| U.S. Fertility Rate | Not Specified | 1.5 births per woman |
| Annual U.S. Immigration | Over 1.5 Million | 100,000 - 200,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Negative Population Growth?
The organization was founded in 1972 by Don Mann, who believed that the goals of Zero Population Growth were insufficient to address overpopulation.
What is the optimal world population according to NPG?
NPG believes that the optimal population for the entire world is between two and three billion people.
What is NPG's target for the United States population?
The organization advocates for a U.S. population of between 150 and 200 million people.
How does NPG propose to reduce the U.S. population?
NPG proposes reducing the fertility rate to 1.5 births per woman and lowering annual immigration to between 100,000 and 200,000 people.
How many members does Negative Population Growth have?
In 2011, the organization claimed its membership exceeded 25,000, though the specific criteria for membership remain unclear.