Impacts of Human Population Change (Cambridge (CIE) AS Environmental Management)

Revision Note

Alistair Marjot

Written by: Alistair Marjot

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Ageing Populations

  • The term ageing population refers to a demographic shift where the proportion of elderly individuals (usually 65 years and older) in a population increases over time

  • This phenomenon is often found in HICs as a result of declining birth rates and improved life expectancy, leading to a larger proportion of older individuals relative to younger ones

  • The global trend of ageing populations in HICs is significant, and has far-reaching implications for societies and economies

Impacts of Ageing Populations on Countries

  • Lower tax revenues:

    • Fewer working-age individuals in the population result in a reduced labour force

    • This leads to a decline in income tax revenues as fewer people are contributing to the tax base

    • Governments face challenges in funding social programs and public services due to diminished tax collections

  • Higher pension spending:

    • With a larger elderly population, there is an increased demand for pension benefits

    • Governments and private pension systems face the challenge of providing sustainable financial support to retirees

    • This puts pressure on public finances and may necessitate adjustments to pension systems

  • Pressure on health care:

    • Ageing populations often experience a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions and increased healthcare needs

    • There is an elevated demand for healthcare services, including long-term care, which can strain existing healthcare systems

    • Governments may need to invest more in healthcare infrastructure and services to meet the needs of an ageing population

  • Pressure to raise retirement age:

    • As life expectancy increases, policymakers may consider raising the retirement age to ensure the financial sustainability of pension systems

    • This can be a contentious issue as it may affect individuals' ability to retire and can lead to debates about whether this is fair or not

Diagram showing a population pyramid for Japan
Population pyramid for Japan
  • The population pyramids of HICs with ageing populations, such as Japan, start to develop a pentagon shape with a narrowing base

  • This indicates:

    • Decreasing birth rate 

    • Increasing life expectancy

    • Death rate is higher than the birth rate due to the ageing population

    • Low infant mortality

    • Ageing population (older dependent population)

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.