Earth’s population to exceed scientist expectations and hit 12bn

Humanity is continuing to grow and the Earth’s population could hit 12bn by 2100, according to a new prediction by experts.

The rising population could worsen problems such as climate change, food shortages, infectious disease, and poverty, scientists warn.

Previous estimates have suggested that after peaking at around 9bn by the end of the century, the global population would level off or even decline.