That's the question raised in a National Geographic year-long series. Noting that the population in 2050 could be from 8 to 10.5 billion, its website declares, "With the population still growing by about 80 million each year, it's hard not to be alarmed. Right now on Earth, water tables are falling, soil is eroding, glaciers are melting, and fish stocks are vanishing. Close to a billion people go hungry each day."
After noting that a 19-year old South African mother named her new child "Enough," a recent Associated Press report indicated that this milestone stirred fears about how our planet "will cope with the needs of so many humans."
A growing percentage of global population growth is taking place in cities worldwide. In 1975, there were only 3 cities with populations of over 10 million. Last year, 20 cities were at that mark, and by 2025 – less than 14 years from now – the U.N. projects 29 cities at that milestone.
The U.N. Population Fund says these cities and nations are "unprepared for such rapid expansion. Planning needs to begin now to take advantage of the many benefits cities can offer."
On Thursday, November 17, 2011, Pedro Ortiz, world-renowned urban expert and now Senior Advisor to the World Bank, will address the challenges and opportunities this scenario presents. He will be speaking to the Wharton Club of DC's Green Business Roundtable at the National Press Club, Washington, DC. The press and concerned members of the public are invited.
He has formulated a forecasting model and specific ways to combat the increasingly perilous situation. Señor Ortiz will discuss business opportunities as part of viable long-term urban development plans that must be implemented.
He joined the World Bank in January 2011 as Senior Advisor to develop strategic guidelines for Urban, Metropolitan and Global Development Issues. He is currently spearheading proposals in 12 countries in Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.
His metropolitan development model takes into account projected growth for the next 40 years. The model considers needs in infrastructure, housing and transportation, social facilities, economic development and environmental sustainability.
If you and your organization are concerned about the state of our cities and our planet, we invite you to attend. If you are prepared to help meet the challenges, this is a must-attend event.
Alan N. Schlaifer
President & CEO
Wharton School Club of Washington
Bethesda, MD
301-365-8999