Explosive population growth is a symptom of the world's unjust and inequitable social, political, and economic conditions. The current rate of growth is staggering, particularly in the cities of the underdeveloped countries. While some progress has been made in slowing population growth, several factors still contribute to its momentum. One of these factors is the large population increase in poorer countries. In these countries, it is economically advantageous to have large families; therefore, until conditions improve, it is not likely that the birth rate will decrease. Many people advocate zero population growth; however, what the world may need is zero population impact growth. Affluent nations have an environmental impact that is disproportionate to their population. They waste resources which could be used by the poorer countries to improve their socioeconomic conditions, thereby allowing people the economic security necessary to consider having smaller families. The belief that overpopulation can be combatted by birth control and family planning ignores the fact that it is really the result of a wasteful world. Major changes in social, political, and economic systems are necessary to reduce population growth. (DC)