HKUST PPOL Fall 2025

FOCUS OF STUDY This article examines the demographic challenges and opportunities arising from the changing population dynamics in the context of the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). It highlights significant issues such as rapid growth in subSaharan Africa, aging populations in other regions, and the need for policies prioritizing human rights and sustainable development. The authors argue that addressing root causes, such as gender inequality, education access, and reproductive rights, is crucial for managing demographic transitions. They emphasize that effective policies should be inclusive and tailored to the unique contexts of each region, fostering resilience and well-being. The study re-evaluates the principles of the ICPD, advocating for a shift from numerical population targets to a focus on individual empowerment and sustainable development. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Governments should implement inclusive, rightsbased policies that promote gender equality, improve access to education and healthcare, and support reproductive rights. Tailoring demographic policies to local contexts is essential for fostering resilience and achieving sustainable development goals. FOCUS OF STUDY This study analyzes the transformation of China’s carbon emission patterns from 1995 to 2020, focusing on the spatial restructuring of population distribution, economic activity, and energy systems. Using an extended KAYA model, the research quantifies the synergistic effects of these shifts on carbon emissions. Key findings indicate that population migration to the south increased emissions by 336.02 Mt, while the southwest shift of economic activities led to a slight rise of 11.46 Mt. Conversely, the westward relocation of energy production resulted in a reduction of 32.23 Mt. The study emphasizes that successful carbon reduction strategies in China must consider the interconnections between demographic shifts, industrial relocation, and energy system changes. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To enhance China’s dual-carbon strategy, policymakers should implement regionally differentiated climate governance that harmonizes population mobility, industrial shifts, and energy layouts within a cohesive framework, ensuring effective carbon management and emissions reduction. Gietel Basten Stuart, and Rachel Snow. “Capitalizing on Population Dynamics 30 Years on from the International Conference on Population and Development.” Studies in Family Planning (2025). Wen, Xianglan, Huimin Li, Xiaofan Zhao & Xiu Yang. “Mapping socioeconomic spatiotemporal transition and its contribution to carbon emissions in China.” Climate and Development (2025): 1-14. 22 Scholarly Showcase

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