Dick Smith takes on the hot topic of our times, arguing that Australian and global population growth carries enormous risks, dangers that none of our political parties is prepared to address.
In 2011 the world's population exceeded 7 billion. Each year we add nearly 80 million people and by mid-century we will require twice as much food and double the energy we use today. Australia will be deeply affected by these trends - we have the fastest growing population of any developed nation. These are the staggering facts that confronted Dick Smith. They set him on his crusade to alert us to the dangers of unsustainable growth. They are the facts that have convinced him that if we are to ensure the survival of our civilisation and the health of the planet then we must put a stop to population growth, now.
As our cities continue their unrestrained growth, as we battle daily on crowded public transport and clogged freeways, and as we confront the reality of water and power shortages, Dick challenges the long-held myth that growth is good for us. But more importantly he offers ways for us to re-invent our economy, to reassess the way we live and to at least slow down that ticking clock. This is a provocative, powerful and urgent call to arms.
ANZEC Member - Dick Smith
Dick Smith's thirst for adventure began in the Scouts when he developed a love of bushwalking and climbing, including climbing Balls Pyramid. However Dick is best known as an aviation adventurer, flying around the world five times, including being the first person to fly solo around the world by helicopter. This inspired Dick to work on aviation reform as the Chairman of Australia's aviation safety regulator, with a view to harmonising Australian regulations with the rest of the world.As a businessman, Dick founded Dick Smith Electronics which he sold in 1982 to start the publishing and retail company Australian Geographic. Dick also founded Dick Smith Foods, the profits of which go to worthwhile charities.The Dick Smith Fair Go Group is Dick's current project, aiming to raise awareness that unlimited growth is impossible in a world with finite space and resources.
