Too many people

Kenny Macaskill’s question of whether humanity is to survive the fury of climate change is very timely and concerning. That concrete actions are needed, there is no doubt.

However, he doesn’t mention the nub of the matter and that is that global population continues to grow apace, a fact seemingly accepted as inevitable. More people equals more of everything – congestion, pollution, destruction of habitable land and, ultimately, climate change.

The provision of education and family planning should become a worldwide priority and not a taboo subject as at present. Everyone must take responsibility for ensuring the survival of our civilisation – or face the consequences.

ANNE LAING Sylvan Place, Edinburgh