Posted 26/2/08

Is Population Growth in Macedon Ranges Sustainable?

What role does human population play in living sustainably on this planet?  What population can Australia support?

What is a sustainable population for the Macedon Ranges?

What factors drive our population growth and is it a problem?

We’ve all heard of the term “Populate or perish,” but recent research suggests the term “Populate and perish” may be closer to the truth.

A leading international researcher and expert in population growth, Sheila Newman, is coming to Woodend at the invitation of  the Woodend Sustainable Living Community (WSLC) to answer these questions and explain why sustainable communities must include sustainable populations.

Ms Newman is an independent social systems researcher, writer, editor and film-maker, who writes on population, energy and land-use planning.

“Understanding the relationship between population, energy supplies, physical infrastructure expansion and key areas of socio-economic policy are key to us choosing to live sustainably on this planet,” said Ms Newman.

“Some people believe a successful economic system must be based in increasing population. But my research brings this assumption into question,”  Ms Newman explained.

In welcoming Ms Newman to Woodend, WSLC President, John Randles said, “We are delighted that Ms Newman has accepted our invitation to talk on population.  It’s a topic that is often ignored in the sustainability debate and we thought it deserves serious community attention.  I encourage people to attend Ms Newnan’s thought provoking presentation.”

Ms Newman’s presentation will be the second of a series that WSLC plan to hold at the new WSLC Sustainability Centre.

A light supper will be provided.