Friend,
Happy Earth Day! 🌍
Today, I want to thank you for standing with Population Connection in our shared commitment to a more sustainable, just, and livable future. Your support means the world—literally.
As we reflect on our planet’s health, there’s no denying it: climate change is the defining challenge of our time. And yet, one critical piece of the puzzle continues to be ignored by much of the environmental movement—population growth.
It’s obvious that people in high-income countries, including the U.S., consume far more than their fair share and are largely responsible for our current climate crisis. However, as incomes and consumption continue to grow in regions that have contributed relatively little to today’s climate catastrophe—the same regions where most future population growth will occur—the number of people on the planet will play an increasingly important role in our global emissions level.
But there is hope—and there are real solutions.
Educating girls and empowering women to make their own reproductive choices are among the most powerful climate actions we can take. These rights-based solutions not only promote equity—they also reduce fertility rates, strengthen economies, and protect the environment.
In fact, removing barriers to family planning and girls’ education could prevent up to 68.9 gigatons of CO₂ equivalent by 2050—making it one of the top three actions to keep global warming under 2°C.
We know this truth. It’s time to speak it boldly.
✔️ Reproductive autonomy leads to smaller families.
✔️ Smaller families ease pressure on the planet.
✔️ Climate justice begins with equity, education, and access.
On this Earth Day, I invite you to embrace the truth—and help us continue speaking out, even when others stay silent.
Whether you’re marching, planting, reading, or simply breathing in fresh air today, I hope you take a moment to feel connected to this beautiful planet we’re all fighting for.
Thank you for your passion, your partnership, and your belief in a better future.
With deep gratitude,
