Our population is contributing to the environmental crisis we face today. Ever-increasing numbers of people have more impact across the globe – climate change, poverty and species extinction are just some of the consequences of having more than 7.8 billion people on the planet. Choosing a smaller family is one of the most powerful actions we can take to create a better future.

We believe that choosing to have a smaller family is key

But what does that mean? It means choosing to have just one or two children, or even none.

By choosing to have a smaller family, we can all live within our means, reduce the pressure on our Earth’s resources, protect the natural world and ensure that there will be enough of everything we need for everyone.

Of course, people make this planet what it is

Our friends, families, colleagues enrich our lives, and we wouldn’t want it any other way. But to make sure our planet can sustain everyone, we need to think seriously about what a sustainable population looks like.

Population Matters is empowering people to choose smaller families by raising awareness of the issue, campaigning, supporting grassroots family planning organisations, and lobbying government. Individuals – single people, couples and families – also have the power to make a difference.

We only have one Earth. We need to reduce the pressure we’re putting on it.

What you can do

You can make the biggest difference of all. You can choose to have a smaller family and enjoy the benefits this brings.

By choosing to have a smaller family you are also putting less strain on the Earth’s resources and reducing the detrimental effects we are having on our environment.