Population - Development - Environment: Understanding Their Interactions in Mauritius - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 3540583017 ISBN 13: 9783540583011

Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. K, 1994

Synopsis

Because the number of options is often limited, small island states tend to find it uncommonly difficult to strike a balance between population, envi- ronment, and development. Relatively high population density and small land areas, without much in the way of natural resources, do not provide the best of circumstances for improving the living conditions of the popu- lation, especially a fast-growing one. The result is often stunted economic development and environmental stress both on land and offshore. The developments in the island state of Mauritius over the past 30 years, however, can serve as an inspiration and illustration of how extremely ad- verse conditions can be overcome. In the early 1960s Mauritius was trying to cope with rapid population growth, extreme poverty, and grim economic 2 prospects. Population density was 324 inhabitants per km , total fertility was 5.7, and GNP per capita was less than $200. In 1990 the situation in Mauritius was radically different. Although 2 population density had increased to 527 inhabitants per km , total fertility had dropped to 2.0, and GNP per capita had increased to $2,310. Economic stagnation had been replaced by steady growth and full employment, and environmental problems were being addressed as issues of high priority.

About this title

Synopsis

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius was chosen as a case study for an in-depth analysis of the complex and controversial interactions between population, economic development, and environmental constraints. Mauritius, with one of the world's highest population densities, has excellent data for such an analysis. During the 1960s/70s it experienced the world's most rapid fertility decline, followed by a remarkable economic boom. Rapid industrialisation, however, threatens the environment. The computer simulation model described in this book shows possible paths of future development that can lead to sustainable economic growth and high social development, even under high environmental standards.

Edition details

• Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. K
• Publication date: 1994
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 3540583017
• ISBN 13: 9783540583011
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 401
• Editor: Lutz Wolfgang