Sign-wielding doomsday maniacs rejoice, computer modelling has predicted the end is in fact nigh.
In 1972, scientists from MIT looked at data patterns from a variety of different factors to explore the effect of exponential economic and population growth with finite resources.
Their computer simulations made the conclusion that limits to growth on Earth would be reached by approximately 2040.
However, criticisms of this report were swift and savage.
It was labelled as doomsday fantasy consigned to the dustbin of history.
Though since then, in 2009 a different team of researchers decided to dig up this much-maligned study.
Published by American Scientist magazine, the new study found that the 1972 model’s results were almost perfectly on track some 35 years later.
Furthermore, now Dutch sustainability researcher Gaya Herrington has confirmed that previous modelling scenarios resonate with climate scientists’ current thoughts that we’re “tipping point.”
Yet, there is a possibility for some light at the end of the tunnel.
Although some of her projections are tracking alarmingly close to the societal collapse scenario, change brought about by society can be made.
A pivoting away from another goal than growth is still possible.
But, Herrington notes, “That window of opportunity is closing fast.”
