In 2024, the total population of Taiwan increased to approximately 23.4 million people. The significant drop in 2021 and 2022 was mainly due to people leaving the island during the coronavirus pandemic, while the natural growth rate was also slightly negative. The return of many people in 2023 led to a growth in population. According to national statistics and projections, population numbers entered a general declining path in 2020. Taiwan's demographic development Taiwan experienced rapid population growth in the 1950s and 60s, but alongside with economic development, growth rates decreased significantly. Falling birth figures have also been attributed to Taiwan’s family planning policy, which was aimed at keeping population growth at check. This led to a situation on the island where overall population density was very high and still growing, while the total fertility rate dropped quickly and eventually reached extremely low levels compared internationally. In the 21st century, the challenges of a quickly aging society became more and more apparent and the government initiated family friendly and birth promoting policies. However, fertility still kept on decreasing and reached a historical low in 2010 at 0.9 births per woman on average, and only in recent years has the number of births increased slightly. Implications of an aging society Today's Taiwan, like many East Asian societies, faces the challenges of a rapidly aging population. While the share of the population aged 65 and older accounted to around 18 percent in 2023, it is projected to reach 43 percent in 2060. The old-age dependency ratio, which denotes the relation of people of 65 years and above to the working-age population, is expected to reach around 87 percent in those years. This puts heavy pressure on the working people and the economy as a whole. However, compared to mainland China, which is in a very much comparable demographic situation, Taiwan enjoys the advantage of a relatively wealthy society, which helps to curb the negative economic effects of an aging population.

1. Population decline is associated with increased vulnerability to extinction, but also with possible density-, frequency-, or distance-related 'rarity advantages' that increase recruitment success as individuals become isolated from their congeners. Distinguishing between these alternatives (risk versus recovery of rare populations via demographic processes) has become critical, given how anthropogenic disturbances are causing population declines globally. 2. Here, we demonstrate how distance-related rarity advantages are evident in spatially isolated recruits of a canopy-dominant but regionally rare species of oak that appears to be suffering recruitment collapse. As distance from parent trees increased, seedlings had significantly more leaves and experienced reduced insect browsing and intraspecific competition. Long-term field-based experimental treatments revealed these advantages to be associated with rapid rates of juvenile maturation and survival that are unobserved in natural settings. 3. The discrepancy between the experimental and natural settings was explained by trophic collapse and habitat loss - two changes ubiquitous to many terrestrial ecosystems – that combine to concentrate vertebrate herbivores in habitat remnants and cause 100% juvenile mortality via the browsing of taller juveniles. Exotic grass cover, long associated with oak recruitment failure, significantly suppressed seedling height and leaf production, but appeared to delay mortality by hiding shorter seedlings from vertebrate herbivores. 4. Synthesis. Our work demonstrates how rarity advantages have the potential to positively influence the population performance of a declining species, but are short-circuited by intense herbivory associated with human-based environmental change. Regionally, there appear to be few existing conditions on the contemporary landscape that favor juvenile survival, suggesting ongoing recruitment difficulties without intervention. Our work clarifies how extinction risk can in some cases be best defined by how anthropogenic disturbances affect, and are offset by, demographic-based persistence mechanisms, than simply by present-day abundance or distribution.

Although territorial animals are able to maintain exclusive use of certain regions of space, movement data from neighboring individuals often suggest overlapping home ranges. To explain and unify these two aspects of animal space use, we use recently developed mechanistic models of collective animal movement. We apply our approach to a natural experiment on an urban red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population that underwent a rapid decline in population density due to a sarcoptic mange epizooty. By extracting details of movement and interaction strategies from location data, we show how foxes alter their behavior, taking advantage of sudden population-level changes by acquiring areas vacated due to neighbor mortality, while ensuring territory boundaries remain contiguous. The rate of territory border movement increased eightfold as the population declined and the foxes' response time to neighboring scent reduced by a third. By demonstrating how observed, fluctuating territorial patterns emerge from movements and interactions of individual animals, our results give the first data-validated, mechanistic explanation of the elastic disc hypothesis, proposed nearly 80 years ago.

The total population of Germany was estimated at over 84.4 million inhabitants in 2025, although it is projected to drop in the coming years and fall below 80 million in 2043. Germany is the most populous country located entirely in Europe, and is third largest when Russia and Turkey are included. Germany's prosperous economy makes it a popular destination for immigrants of all backgrounds, which has kept its population above 80 million for several decades. Population growth and stability has depended on immigration In every year since 1972, Germany has had a higher death rate than its birth rate, meaning its population is in natural decline. However, Germany's population has rarely dropped below its 1972 figure of 78.6 million, and, in fact, peaked at 84.7 million in 2024, all due to its high net immigration rate. Over the past 75 years, the periods that saw the highest population growth rates were; the 1960s, due to the second wave of the post-WWII baby boom; the 1990s, due to post-reunification immigration; and since the 2010s, due to high arrivals of refugees from conflict zones in Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. Does falling population = economic decline? Current projections predict that Germany's population will fall to almost 70 million by the next century. Germany's fertility rate currently sits around 1.5 births per woman, which is well below the repacement rate of 2.1 births per woman. Population aging and decline present a major challenge economies, as more resources must be invested in elderly care, while the workforce shrinks and there are fewer taxpayers contributing to social security. Countries such as Germany have introduced more generous child benefits and family friendly policies, although these are yet to prove effective in creating a cultural shift. Instead, labor shortages are being combatted via automation and immigration, however, both these solutions are met with resistance among large sections of the population and have become defining political issues of our time.

Some behaviours that typically increase fitness at the individual level, may reduce population persistence, particularly in the face of environmental changes. Sexual cannibalism is an extreme mating behaviour which typically involves a male being devoured by the female immediately before, during or after copulation, and is widespread amongst predatory invertebrates. Although the individual-level effects of sexual cannibalism are reasonably well understood, very little is known about the population-level effects. We constructed both a mathematical model and an individual-based model to predict how sexual cannibalism might affect population growth rate and extinction risk. We found that in the absence of any cannibalism-derived fecundity benefit, sexual cannibalism is always detrimental to population growth rate and leads to a higher population extinction risk. Increasing the fecundity benefits of sexual cannibalism leads to a consistently higher population growth rate and likely a lower extinction risk. However, even if cannibalism-derived fecundity benefits are large, very high rates of sexual cannibalism (>70%) can still drive the population to negative growth and potential extinction. Pre-copulatory cannibalism was particularly damaging for population growth rates and was the main predictor of growth declining below the replacement rate. Surprisingly, post-copulatory cannibalism had a largely positive effect on population growth rate when fecundity benefits were present. This study is the first to formally estimate the population-level effects of sexual cannibalism. We highlight the detrimental effect sexual cannibalism may have on population viability if a) cannibalism rates become high, and/or b) cannibalism-derived fecundity benefits become low. Decreased food availability could plausibly both increase the frequency of cannibalism, and reduce the fecundity benefit of cannibalism, suggesting that sexual cannibalism may increase the risk of population collapse in the face of environmental change.

Allee effects are defined as a decline in per capita fitness at low population density. We hypothesized that predation reduces population size of breeding waders and thereby the efficiency of predator deterrence, while total nitrogen through its effects on primary and secondary productivity increases population size. Therefore, nest predation could have negative consequences for population size because nest failure generally results in breeding dispersal and hence reduced local population density. To test these predictions we recorded nest predation in five species of waders for 4745 nests during 1987-2015 at the nature reserve Tipperne, Denmark. Predation rates were generally negatively related to conspecific and heterospecific population density, but positively related to overall population density of the entire wader community. Nest predation and population density were related to ground water level, management (grazing and mowing) and nutrients. High nest predation with a time lag of one year resulted in low overall breeding population density, while high nutrient levels resulted in higher population density. These two factors accounted for 86% of the variance in population size, presumably due to effects of nest predation on emigration, while nutrient levels increased the level of vegetation cover and the abundance of food in the surrounding brackish water. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that predation may reduce population density through negative density-dependence, while total nitrogen at adjacent shallow water may increase population size. Nest predation rates were reduced by high ground water level in March, grazing by cattle and mowing that affected access to and susceptibility of nests to predators. These effects can be managed to benefit breeding waders.

The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) has experienced a rapid population decline throughout its distribution. In Nepal, it mostly occurs outside protected areas; therefore, habitat degradation due to anthropogenic activities is one of the major threats to its survival. However, the scarcity of information on the ecology and distribution of pangolins impedes evidence-based conservation of this species in Nepal. Its habitat preferences and distribution and the factors influencing people’s attitude to its conservation were studied in Gorkha District in central Nepal. Thirteen transects, each 0.5 km in length, were used for recording burrows indicating the presence of pangolin. In total, 124 burrows were recorded, of which 38 were new and 86 were old, which indicated a clumped distribution. Based on the highest percentage frequency of occurrence, most burrows occurred between 650 and 800 m a.s.l., in areas with a south-facing aspect, with moderate canopy cover, in forest, red soil and gentle terrain. The logistic regression model revealed that habitat type, soil type, crown cover, terrain, and distance to water were the most important factors affecting pangolin presence. In total, 87 households and 9 key informants were interviewed using questionnaires to determine the people’s knowledge of pangolins and attitude to their conservation. More than 50% of the respondents had seen pangolin in the areas studied and had a general knowledge of their habitat and benefits. However, most of them were unaware that it was illegal to hunt pangolins and were involved in opportunistic hunting for meat consumption. Pangolins were mostly recorded in forest at altitudes 650–800 m a.s.l., with moderate canopy cover, red soil, and close to a source of water; habitat, soil, canopy cover, terrain, and distance to water were statistically significantly associated with the presence of pangolin burrows. This study revealed that an increase in public awareness (mainly through education) would help to increase the likelihood of pangolin survival. These results can also serve as guidelines for protecting pangolin habitats for use by local authorities.

Aim: Habitat loss and climate change constitute two of the greatest threats to biodiversity worldwide, and theory predicts that these factors may act synergistically to affect population trajectories. Recent evidence indicates that structurally complex old-growth forest can be cooler than other forest types during spring and summer months, thereby offering potential to buffer populations from negative effects of warming. Old growth may also have higher food and nest-site availability for certain species, which could have disproportionate fitness benefits as species approach their thermal limits. Location: Pacific Northwestern United States. Methods: We predicted that negative effects of climate change on 30-year population trends of old-growth-associated birds should be dampened in landscapes with high proportions of old-growth forest. We modelled population trends from Breeding Bird Survey data for 13 species as a function of temperature change and proportion old-growth forest. Results: We found a significant negative effect of summer warming on only two species. However, in both of these species, this relationship between warming and population decline was not only reduced but reversed, in old-growth-dominated landscapes. Across all 13 species, evidence for a buffering effect of old-growth forest increased with the degree to which species were negatively influenced by summer warming. Main conclusions: These findings suggest that old-growth forests may buffer the negative effects of climate change for those species that are most sensitive to temperature increases. Our study highlights a mechanism whereby management strategies to curb degradation and loss of old-growth forests—in addition to protecting habitat—could enhance biodiversity persistence in the face of climate warming.

The fertility rates have fallen in all five Nordic countries over the last years. However, in 2021, the birth rates increased again in all five Nordics countries, besides in Sweden, where the fertility rate stayed the same. This can be explained by the higher number of babies born during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, Iceland had the highest fertility rate of the Nordic countries, with *** children born per woman in reproductive age. The global trend of decreasing fertility The Nordics are not the only region with decreasing fertility rates. Globally, fertility rates have been on a steady decline since 2000. While lower-income countries have had more significant declines, they still have more children born per woman than higher-income countries. In 2000, almost * children were born per woman in low-income countries, decreasing to **** in 2021. By comparison, nearly **** children were born per woman in high-income countries, falling slightly to **** by 2021. Overall, in 2023, Niger, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo had the highest fertility rates, while Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore had the lowest fertility rates. Impacts of low fertility Greater access to education, challenges between work-life balance, and the costs of raising children can all be linked to falling fertility rates. However, this decline is not without consequences, and many countries are facing social and economic challenges because of aging and shrinking populations. For example, in Japan, where nearly ** percent of the country is aged 65 or older, an increasing proportion of the government expenditure is going towards social security benefits. Moreover, the very low unemployment rate in Japan can partially be attributed to having a shrinking labor force and fewer people to support the economy.

Quercus chungii, a rare and endangered endemic tree species, is found exclusively in subtropical regions of China. Understanding the population structure and temporal dynamics of Q. chungii is pivotal for effective conservation and restoration of its populations and associated ecosystems. However, large knowledge gaps remain about its population structure and temporal change, and its key demographic rates across size classes. In this study, we investigated the population structures of Q. chungii in 2013 and 2023 in a nature reserve specifically established to better conserve this species and its associated ecosystems. We found that Q. chungii increased in its overall abundance, and tree size in the past decade, suggesting active regeneration and a rapid growth rate for this species and the effectiveness of past conservation efforts. The age structure in 2023 showed a pyramid shape, with a sharp decline in the numbers of individuals from germinated seeds to seedlings and from seedlings to saplings. These led to the low numbers of seedlings and saplings and high age-specific death probabilities at the early developmental stages. These results indicated potential risks of future population decline. These risks may have already manifested over the past decade, as a high mortality rate during the seedling-to-sapling transition could be one of the primary reasons contributing to the decreased proportion of saplings in 2023 compared to 2013. We propose that future studies may benefit from in-depth studies on the regeneration processes of Q. chungii by considering seed predation and germination under changing climate. This study improves the prediction of population development of Q. chungii, thereby offering theoretical guidance essential for its conservation.

Avian malaria, transmitted by Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes in the Hawaiian Islands, has been a primary contributor to population range limitations, declines, and extinctions for many endemic Hawaiian honeycreepers. Avian malaria is strongly influenced by climate; therefore, predicted future changes are expected to expand transmission into higher elevations and intensify and lengthen existing transmission periods at lower elevations, leading to further population declines and potential extinction of highly susceptible honeycreepers in mid- and high-elevation forests. Based on future climate changes and resulting malaria risk, we evaluated the viability of alternative conservation strategies to preserve endemic Hawaiian birds at mid and high elevations through the 21st century. We linked an epidemiological model with three alternative climatic projections from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project to predict future malaria risk and bird population dynamics for the coming century. Based on climate change predictions, proposed strategies included mosquito population suppression using modified males, release of genetically modified refractory mosquitoes, competition from other introduced mosquitoes that are not competent vectors, evolved malaria-tolerance in native honeycreepers, feral pig control to reduce mosquito larval habitats, and predator control to improve bird demographics. Transmission rates of malaria are predicted to be higher than currently observed and are likely to have larger impacts in high-elevation forests where current low rates of transmission create a refuge for highly-susceptible birds. As a result, several current and proposed conservation strategies will be insufficient to maintain existing forest bird populations. We concluded that mitigating malaria transmission at high elevations should be a primary conservation goal. Conservation strategies that maintain highly susceptible species like Iiwi (Drepanis coccinea) will likely benefit other threatened and endangered Hawai’i species, especially in high-elevation forests. Our results showed that mosquito control strategies offer potential long-term benefits to high elevation Hawaiian honeycreepers. However, combined strategies will likely be needed to preserve endemic birds at mid elevations. Given the delay required to research, develop, evaluate, and improve several of these currently untested conservation strategies we suggest that planning should begin expeditiously.

Microbiomes can dramatically alter individual plant performance, yet how these effects influence higher order processes is not well resolved. In particular, little is known about how microbiome effects on individual plants alter plant population dynamics, a question critical to imperiled species conservation. Here, we integrate bioassays, multidecadal demographic data, and integral projection modeling to determine how the presence of the natural soil microbiome underlies plant population dynamics. Simulations indicated that the presence of soil microbiomes boosted population growth rates (λ) of the endangered Hypericum cumulicola by 13% on average, the difference between population growth versus decline in 76% of patches. The greatest benefit (47% increase in λ) occurred in low nutrient, high elevation habitats, suggesting that the soil microbiome may help expand H. cumulicola's distribution to include these stressful habitats. Our results demonstrate that soil microbiomes can significantly affect plant population growth and persistence, and support the incorporation of soil microbiomes into conservation planning. plant population growth and persistence, and support the incorporation of soil microbiomes into conservation planning.

Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global market size for Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service reached USD 610 million in 2024, with a robust CAGR of 13.7% projected through the forecast period. By 2033, the market is expected to attain a value of USD 1.82 billion, driven by a convergence of technological advances, increasing demand for sustainable agriculture, and the critical need to address declining pollinator populations. The market's upward trajectory is primarily attributed to the growing adoption of data-driven pollination solutions and the rising emphasis on crop yield optimization.

A significant growth factor for the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market is the rapid decline in natural pollinator populations, particularly honey bees, due to factors such as habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. As agricultural productivity is highly dependent on effective pollination, especially for high-value crops, stakeholders are increasingly turning to managed pollination services to ensure consistent and reliable crop yields. The integration of technology, such as IoT-enabled monitoring and advanced data analytics, further enhances the efficiency and precision of pollination activities, making these services indispensable for modern agriculture. As a result, the market is witnessing increased investments from both public and private sectors, aiming to bridge the pollination gap and secure food production systems.

Another pivotal driver is the surge in global food demand, propelled by population growth and changing dietary preferences towards fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which are heavily reliant on insect pollination. Precision bee pollination services offer a scalable and sustainable solution for large-scale agricultural operations, horticulture, and greenhouse crops, enabling growers to optimize pollination timing and density for maximum yield and quality. The rise of agribusinesses seeking to integrate digital agriculture solutions, coupled with supportive government policies promoting sustainable farming, is further accelerating market growth. Additionally, the increasing awareness among farmers about the economic benefits of managed pollination—such as improved crop uniformity and reduced dependency on manual labor—continues to fuel market expansion.

Technological innovation remains at the core of the market’s growth, with advancements in sensor technologies, AI-powered analytics, and cloud-based platforms transforming the way pollination services are delivered and monitored. Companies are leveraging these tools to provide real-time insights into bee health, pollination rates, and environmental conditions, allowing for data-driven decision-making and proactive management. Partnerships between agri-tech startups, research institutes, and traditional beekeeping enterprises are fostering the development of integrated service offerings that cater to diverse crop types and farming environments. As the market matures, the focus is shifting towards enhancing service scalability, interoperability, and user-friendliness, ensuring that precision bee pollination becomes accessible to both large-scale agribusinesses and smallholder farmers.

Regionally, North America continues to dominate the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market, owing to its large-scale commercial agriculture, high adoption of agri-tech solutions, and strong research ecosystem. Europe follows closely, driven by stringent sustainability mandates and a well-established horticulture industry. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, fueled by rapid agricultural modernization, increasing awareness about pollinator decline, and government initiatives to boost crop productivity. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual adoption, particularly in export-oriented agriculture and greenhouse farming. Overall, the regional landscape is characterized by varying levels of technological adoption, regulatory frameworks, and crop diversification, shaping the market’s evolution across geographies.

Service Type Analysis

The Service Type segment in the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market encompasses Managed Pollination Services, Pollination Monitoring, Data Analytics, and other specialized offerings. Managed Pollination Services represent the backbone of the market, providing end-to-end solutions that include the deployment, maintenance, and management of bee colonie

Spotted Ground Thrush Zoothera guttata is a rare, elusive and little-known bird species with a wide but discontinuous distribution. Severe threats in the form of forest loss and fragmentation leading to rapid population decline have led to the species being classified as Endangered (BirdLife International 2000, 2007). Zoothera guttata is known only as a non-breeding visitor between late March and November to forests on the Kenya coast (Bennun 1992). Information regarding the Spotted Ground Thrush in most Kenyan sites has been scanty and scattered, making it difficult to clearly understand its status in Kenya. Bennun (1985, 1987) did the only focused studies on Spotted Ground Thrush in Kenya. In 1983 he did a short study assessing the species’ status and general ecology at Gede Ruins Forest. This was later followed up by a one-week ringing session in 1985. Further ringing was done at Gede Ruins and Arabuko-Sokoke forests in 1992. A long time had passed since these last bird surveys. This necessitated follow-up surveys of the Spotted Ground Thrush forests at the Kenyan coast to assess the current status of the species and its forest habitat.

This dataset contains results of examining the conservation status of Zoothera guttata on its non-breeding grounds in the Kenya coastal forests achieved through re-assessing: (1) its current and probable changes in population, distribution and forest habitat status, and (2) existing conservation measures that benefit the species.

The dataset contains 11 records of Spotted Ground Thrush. The data were formatted according to the Darwin Core Standards by A Rocha Kenya before publishing through the IPT at the National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi.

Genetic factors in the decline of small populations are extremely difficult to study in nature. We leveraged a natural experiment to investigate evidence of inbreeding depression and genetic rescue in a remnant population of subalpine-specialized Sierra Nevada red foxes (Vulpes vulpes necator) using noninvasive genetic monitoring during 2010–2017. Only 7 individuals were detected in the first 2 years. These individuals assigned genetically to the historical population and exhibited genetic hallmarks of inbreeding and no evidence of reproduction. Two years into the study, we detected 2 first-generation immigrant males from a recently expanding population of red foxes in the Great Basin Desert. Through annual resampling of individuals (634 red fox DNA samples, 41 individuals) and molecular reconstruction of pedigrees, we documented 1–3 litters/yr for 5 years, all descended directly or indirectly from matings involving immigrant foxes. The observed heterozygosity and allelic richness of the population nearly doubled in 2 years. Abundance increased, indicative of a rapidly expanding population. Throughout the study, adult survival was high. Restoration of gene flow apparently improved the demographic trajectory of this population in the short term. Whether these benefits continue in the longer-term could depend on numerous factors, such as maintenance of any locally adapted alleles. This study highlights the value of noninvasive genetic monitoring to assess rapidly shifting conditions in small populations. Uncertainties about the longer-term trajectory of this population underscore the need to continue monitoring and to research potential for both negative and positive aspects of continued genetic infusion.

Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market size was valued at USD 1.42 billion in 2024, and the sector is experiencing robust momentum with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the market is forecasted to reach USD 2.81 billion, driven by increasing recognition of pollinators’ critical role in ecosystem health and agricultural productivity. This growth is further bolstered by expanding governmental initiatives, heightened consumer awareness, and a rising trend in sustainable landscaping practices.

One of the primary growth drivers for the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market is the escalating global concern regarding pollinator population decline, particularly bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of a significant percentage of food crops. Governments and conservation organizations are launching targeted programs and incentives to restore pollinator habitats, stimulating demand for high-quality seed mixes tailored to native flora and fauna. The agricultural sector, in particular, is increasingly adopting pollinator-friendly practices, supported by research that underscores the direct correlation between pollinator activity and crop yields. This widespread adoption is creating considerable opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers of pollinator habitat seed mixes, especially as sustainable farming practices become mainstream.

Another crucial growth factor is the rising popularity of sustainable landscaping among residential and commercial property owners. As urbanization accelerates, there is a growing movement toward creating green spaces that support biodiversity and environmental resilience. Landscaping professionals and home gardeners are increasingly seeking pollinator habitat seed mixes that are easy to establish and maintain, contain native plant species, and contribute to local ecosystem health. The availability of custom blends tailored to specific regional climates and soil conditions is further expanding the market’s appeal, as consumers demand solutions that deliver both ecological and aesthetic benefits. This trend is reinforced by educational campaigns and collaborations between seed suppliers, environmental NGOs, and government agencies.

Technological advancements in seed formulation, packaging, and distribution channels are also significantly influencing market growth. Online retail platforms and specialty stores are making it easier for end-users to access a diverse range of pollinator habitat seed mixes, while direct sales channels are strengthening relationships with large-scale buyers such as farmers and conservation organizations. Innovations in seed coating and pre-mixed blends are improving germination rates and habitat establishment success, fostering repeat purchases and long-term market expansion. Moreover, data-driven approaches to habitat restoration, including GIS mapping and site-specific recommendations, are enhancing the effectiveness of pollinator habitat projects, further driving demand for specialized seed mixes.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to lead the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed closely by Europe. Both regions benefit from strong regulatory frameworks, active conservation initiatives, and a high level of public engagement in biodiversity preservation. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, propelled by rapid urbanization, increasing agricultural modernization, and rising awareness of ecosystem services. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual market penetration, supported by international collaborations and pilot projects aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and supporting pollinator populations.

Product Type Analysis

The Product Type segment of the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market is highly diversified, encom

Electric Scooter Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global electric scooter market size reached USD 41.2 billion in 2024, driven by a robust shift towards sustainable urban mobility and rapid technological advancements. The market is set to expand at a CAGR of 10.8% from 2025 to 2033, culminating in a projected value of USD 102.4 billion by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily fueled by increasing environmental concerns, government incentives for electric mobility, and the rising adoption of shared mobility solutions worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the electric scooter market is the global emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation options. Governments across major economies are implementing stringent emission regulations and providing subsidies or tax incentives to both manufacturers and consumers of electric vehicles. These initiatives have significantly lowered the cost barrier for end-users, resulting in a surge in electric scooter adoption in urban and semi-urban areas. Additionally, the integration of advanced battery technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, has improved the range and performance of electric scooters, making them a more viable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

Another critical driver for the electric scooter market is the rapid urbanization and changing mobility preferences among young adults and working professionals. Urban centers are experiencing increased traffic congestion and limited parking spaces, making compact and efficient electric scooters an attractive solution for daily commuting. The proliferation of ride-sharing and scooter-sharing platforms has further democratized access to electric scooters, allowing users to conveniently rent vehicles for short distances. These shared mobility models are particularly popular in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia Pacific, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Technological advancements have also played a pivotal role in the evolution and widespread acceptance of electric scooters. Innovations such as regenerative braking systems, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and mobile app connectivity have enhanced the user experience and safety features of modern electric scooters. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to introduce models with improved durability, faster charging capabilities, and customizable ride settings. These technological upgrades not only attract tech-savvy consumers but also address concerns related to battery life and operational efficiency, further accelerating market growth.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region continues to dominate the electric scooter market, accounting for the largest share of global sales in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the presence of leading manufacturers, high population density, and supportive government policies in countries like China, India, and Japan. Europe is witnessing substantial growth, driven by stringent emission norms and the rapid expansion of shared e-scooter fleets in urban centers. North America is also emerging as a significant market, with increasing investments in charging infrastructure and rising consumer awareness about sustainable transportation. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are expected to show steady growth, supported by urbanization and improving economic conditions.

Product Type Analysis

The electric scooter market is segmented by product type into folding, non-folding, and self-balancing scooters. Folding electric scooters have gained significant traction among urban commuters due to their portability and ease of storage. These scooters are particularly favored by office-goers and students who require a compact vehicle that can be easily carried onto public transportation or stored under desks. The convenience offered by folding models aligns well with the lifestyle of city dwellers, contributing to their increasing market share. Ma

Walking Canes Market Outlook

The global walking canes market size was valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow at a steady CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2032, reaching an estimated $1.9 billion by the end of the forecast period. This growth is driven by an aging global population, increasing incidences of mobility impairments, and the rising awareness about the benefits of walking aids for enhancing mobility and reducing the risk of falls. Walking canes serve as both practical mobility aids and supportive devices that enhance the quality of life for elderly and disabled individuals, making them a crucial component in the healthcare industry.

The growth of the walking canes market is significantly influenced by the increasing geriatric population worldwide. As aging is associated with a natural decline in physical abilities, the demand for walking canes is expected to rise. According to the World Health Organization, the global population aged 60 years and older is expected to total 2 billion by 2050, more than doubling from 900 million in 2015. This demographic shift is creating a substantial customer base for walking canes, as they help maintain independence and mobility. Furthermore, advancements in healthcare have led to increased life expectancy, further expanding this consumer segment and supporting market growth.

Another key growth factor is the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and conditions that impair mobility, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and neurological disorders. These conditions often result in impaired balance and an increased risk of falls, necessitating the use of supportive devices like walking canes. Furthermore, awareness campaigns by healthcare organizations and product innovations aimed at enhancing user comfort and safety are contributing to the market's expansion. Improved ergonomic designs, lightweight materials, and added features such as adjustable height and foldability are attracting more consumers and boosting market demand.

Technological advancements in the design and functionality of walking canes are also playing a pivotal role in market growth. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing smart canes equipped with sensors and alert systems that provide real-time feedback and safety alerts to users. These innovations are particularly appealing to tech-savvy younger populations who may require mobility aids due to accidents or temporary disabilities. Additionally, the integration of aesthetics and fashion into walking cane designs is capturing the interest of users who view canes not just as medical devices but also as style statements, further broadening the market's appeal.

Regionally, North America and Europe are expected to dominate the walking canes market, primarily due to their well-established healthcare infrastructure and high awareness levels among consumers. In North America, the market growth is driven by the presence of a large elderly population and favorable government policies supporting mobility aid reimbursements. Europe, on the other hand, benefits from strong healthcare systems and a growing trend of assistive technology adoption. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period, attributed to its rapidly aging population, increasing healthcare investments, and rising disposable incomes.

Product Type Analysis

The walking canes market is segmented into various product types, including folding canes, quad canes, offset canes, and others. Each type of cane offers unique benefits tailored to the specific needs of users, contributing to the overall growth of the market. Folding canes are particularly popular due to their portability and convenience, making them ideal for individuals who require a mobility aid that can be easily stored and transported. The flexibility in design and ease of use make folding canes a preferred choice for many users, especially those who travel frequently or have limited storage space.

Quad canes, known for their stability and support, have a broad base with four points of contact with the ground. These canes are particularly beneficial for users who require extra support and balance assistance, such as those recovering from surgery or with severe mobility impairments. The growing number of individuals facing balance-related issues and requiring more substantial support is driving the demand for quad canes. Manufacturers are innovating in this segment by offering adjustable and lightweight quad canes, enhancing their appeal to a wider audience.

BackgroundSince 1990, the world’s homicide rate has declined by nearly 20%. While prior research has documented parallel homicide declines across many individual countries, the causes of a shared international homicide decline remain unknown. Drawing on a worldwide process of population ageing, and on research linking age to criminal activity, this study investigates the contribution of global demographic shifts to the international homicide decline.MethodsWe draw from (1) a High Coverage Sample of 126 countries since 1990, and (2) a Long Series Sample of 26 countries since 1960 and utilize fixed-effect regressions to evaluate the impact of age structure on homicide trends. In addition, we use a quantile regression to explore variations in the relationship between age structure and homicide conditional on homicide levels.FindingsResults using the High Coverage Sample suggest no relationship between age structure and homicide. However, results from the Long Series Sample suggest that changes in the relative size of countries’ youth population is a major predictor of homicide trends since 1960. In exploring this divergence, we find that the influence of age structure on homicide becomes less evident as other risk factors for violence gain prominence. Thus, while high homicide countries had the most to gain from falling homicide rates, the safety benefits of an ageing population have been concentrated among the least violent countries.InterpretationWhile the homicide declines of individual countries have often been attributed to domestic policies, the universality of international homicide trends suggests the influence of broader global phenomenon. We find that countries’ homicide trends are strongly associated with changes in the size of their youth populations, particularly where there are few competing criminogenic forces. Based on these results, we propose an explanation for the international homicide decline, while highlighting the importance of demographic patterns in explaining homicide trends.

The global bumblebee pollination box market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and efficient pollination solutions in agriculture. The rising awareness of the declining bee population and the subsequent impact on crop yields is a significant catalyst for market expansion. Furthermore, the growing adoption of controlled environment agriculture (CEA), including greenhouses and vertical farms, is fueling demand for reliable and controlled pollination methods. Bumblebee pollination boxes offer a precise and effective alternative to traditional open-field pollination, providing enhanced crop yields and quality. The market is segmented by hive size (large, medium, standard) and application (greenhouse, orchard, vegetable field, other), with greenhouses and vegetable fields currently dominating market share due to their controlled environments and high crop density. Leading companies are investing in research and development to improve bumblebee box technology, focusing on factors like hive design, bumblebee health, and monitoring systems. The market is witnessing innovation in the form of smart pollination systems that incorporate AI and IoT to optimize pollination efficiency and reduce labor costs. This trend is expected to further accelerate market growth in the coming years. While factors such as initial investment costs and potential pest or disease issues can pose restraints, the overall market outlook remains positive, indicating substantial growth opportunities for key players and emerging businesses. The projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) combined with the current market size allows us to estimate a substantial market expansion. Given the increasing focus on sustainable agriculture and technological advancements, we anticipate a continued shift towards bumblebee pollination boxes, particularly in high-value crops. Regional variations exist; North America and Europe are currently leading the market due to higher adoption rates and established agricultural practices, but rapidly developing economies in Asia-Pacific are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. This growth will be driven by increasing agricultural output and rising awareness of the benefits of efficient pollination strategies. The market is expected to see consolidation amongst key players, with the potential for mergers and acquisitions as companies strive for greater market share and expanded technological capabilities.