ENV 101: Introduction to Environmental Science
Population Dynamics and Carrying Capacity (Part II)

Global Scenario: In Brief
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Western societies are more conductive to having a smaller population due to individualistic social dynamics. Some countries have a stable population growth, while others are experiencing negative growth. Higher standards of living in European countries.

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Bangladesh Population Scenario
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The current population is 162 million. Projected to rise to 222 million by 2025. Fertility decline in the context of a strong family planning program. In 2004, life expectancy was around 62 for both sexes.

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The population density of 2,050 persons per square mile is one of the highest in the world. Muslim majority. Agriculture and textiles are the biggest sectors of the economy, services industry is catching up. US $ 240 per capita income.

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Until recently, Bangladesh was characterized by high fertility and comparatively high mortality. Combination of social, cultural and economic factors:
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Lack of employment for married women outside the home Low urbanization Low per capita income Lack of education for women in rural areas Agriculture-based economy Societal attitudes towards reproduction

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The status of Bangladeshi women is lower than that of men. In several areas, social and cultural factors do not allow women to work outside the home. True in rural areas, where women who work outside the household are of low status. Due to recent economic changes, more women are working in the garments industries.

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Both the Government and NGOs have been trying to provide better access to credit.
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Literacy rate: 35% males, 26% females. Formal primary education is compulsory. Several NGOs have concentrated their efforts on increasing educational opportunities,