It is an undeniable fact that the planet urgently needs population control. For three decades now, the world has become more and more concerned about the problems of rapid population growth and it is time that these concerns be seriously put into play. A study by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) shows that every second five people are born and two people die, giving a gain of three people. The same study shows that there are currently over eight hundred million people that are hungry or undernourished in the world, and also that CO2 emissions have increased twelve times between 1990-2000 (UNFPA). If these rates of growth and consumption continue, then it will only be a matter of time until the Earth can no longer sustain all its inhabitants. To prevent a scenario in which human beings would exceed the Earth's carrying capacity, birth rates must be lowered, woman must be granted their basic human rights, and steps must be taken to reduce poverty.
             There are three main ways in which birth rates can be lowered: by setting limits on the number of children per couple, creating family planning workshops, and promoting contraceptive-use. A birth limitation policy sets a limit on the number of children spouses can bear. It has been in effect in China since the 70's and the result of this indigenous program proved to be rather, very positive. In 1990, the average family size was 3.96 but currently, it is reported to be approximately 3.40 (Life with 9 Billion People). If China had not implemented its one-child (two children in rural areas) policy, then its population would have passed the 1.5 billion mark by now. After putting the policy into effect, the country has seen many changes in education, economy, and health care. Since the 1970s the literacy rates have nearly doubled, life expectancy has risen from thirty-five years to nearly sixty-six years, and the number of people living below the poverty line has dropped from t...