Causes. A reduction over time in a region's population can be caused by sudden adverse events such as outbursts of infectious disease, famine, and war or by long-term trends, for example sub-replacement fertility, persistently low birth rates, high mortality rates, and continued emigration.

What are the consequences of depopulation?

This process of depopulation provokes a range of environmental impacts. It can actually increase negative environmental pressures on biodiverse agricultural production through increased soil erosion and invasions by pests and weeds, leading to reduction of biodiversity.

What is the benefit of depopulation?

Slower population growth means that women on average are having fewer children, which gives girls and women the opportunity to pursue education and careers and continue a positive cycle of schooling, autonomy and equal status. Slower population growth will also place a higher value on immigration.