The Voluntary Human Extinction Movement (VHEMT) is advocating for the voluntary extinction of the human species in order to protect the planet. Les Knight, the founder of VHEMT, believes that overpopulation is causing irreversible damage to the Earth’s biosphere and that the most humane solution is for humans to voluntarily stop procreating and phase themselves out.
Les Knight’s journey towards advocating for human extinction began in the 1970s when he was a college student in Portland, Oregon. Witnessing the devastation caused by human activity on the environment, Knight became involved in environmental activism and joined the local chapter of Zero Population Growth. This experience solidified his belief that the best course of action for the planet would be for humanity to go extinct.
The Voluntary Human Extinction Movement, originally known as the Human Extinction Movement, was founded by Knight in the early 1970s and later renamed VHEMT in the late 1980s. The movement aims to raise awareness about the negative impacts of overpopulation on the environment and the need for humans to voluntarily reduce their numbers. Knight emphasizes that the movement does not condone mass murder or forced birth control, but rather advocates for a gradual decrease in the human population through voluntary means.
As the human population continues to grow, reaching a record 8.2 billion people, wildlife populations have plummeted by 70% and greenhouse gas emissions have soared. Knight argues that human overpopulation is the root cause of many environmental problems, including habitat destruction and species extinction. He believes that a shrinking human population would benefit all life on Earth.
VHEMT has garnered support from individuals around the world who share similar concerns about the impact of human overpopulation on the environment. The movement’s motto, “May we live long and die out,” reflects their belief that voluntary extinction is the most compassionate solution for the planet. Members of VHEMT, such as Hillary Mead and Kristine Kibbee, express their support for the movement due to their concerns about societal collapse, global warming, and the general lack of faith in humanity.
While some members of VHEMT advocate for the extinction of all life on Earth, others, like Nicolaj Ortmeyer, focus specifically on human extinction. Ortmeyer believes that a gradual decrease in the human population is necessary to prevent further environmental destruction. Overpopulation, according to Knight, is the root cause of many of the world’s problems, and reducing the human population is essential for addressing these issues.
Experts have differing opinions on the role of overpopulation in climate change, with some arguing that human population growth is not the primary driver of environmental problems. Dr. Edward Gryspeerdt suggests that transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing emissions to net zero are more effective ways to combat climate change than focusing solely on population control. While reducing fertility rates may help mitigate the impacts of overpopulation, other factors, such as consumption patterns and resource management, also play a significant role in addressing environmental challenges.
Despite the differing viewpoints on overpopulation, the message of VHEMT remains clear: voluntary human extinction is a compassionate solution to the environmental crisis. Knight acknowledges that not everyone will agree with his beliefs, but he remains committed to spreading awareness about the impact of overpopulation on the planet. As the current generation, Alpha, faces the challenges of a rapidly growing population, Knight hopes that individuals will consider the long-term implications of their reproductive choices and strive towards a more sustainable future for all life on Earth.