Eco-fertility: examining the climate change-total fertility rate nexus in the context of sustainable developmental goals in a systematic review approach

Abstract

Abstract Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are paramount as the global community confronts the ramifications of climate alterations, especially its implications on population dynamics. Initial studies suggest an intricate relationship between environmental determinants and reproductive choices. This systematic review elucidates the complex interplay between climate-related challenges and observed global fertility rate variations. A comprehensive search and analysis of literature published in the last 10 years (2013–2023), available in the PubMed database, delineates the relationship between environmental changes and fertility patterns in both human and animal populations. The review highlighted significant effects of climatic fluctuations on reproductive health, manifested as either adaptive or maladaptive responses to environmental stressors. This relationship not only influences population trajectories but may also have complications for the SDGs, specifically those pertaining to health, well-being, and gender equality. The study emphasizes the importance of intertwining demographic insights with ecological considerations. A deeper understanding of the nexus between climate and fertility can augment strategies aimed at global sustainability. The synthesized evidence underscores the urgency for further research, which seeks to seamlessly incorporate eco-fertility perspectives into wider climate and sustainability discussions.