Citation:

BRADLEY, PATRICIA, K. THORNTON, S. F. HEDTKE, W. R. MUNNS, S. WRIGHT, J. ORME-ZAVALETA, D. BAUER, AND B. SMITH. PROCEEDINGS OF THE AGING AMERICANS: IMPACT ON THE ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY WORKSHOP. Research Triangle Park, NC, August 10 - 12, 2004. MP Bradley (ed.), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-05/028 (NTIS PB2006-101998), 2004.

Impact/Purpose:

To discuss the environmental community about the impact of the aging society in relation to natural resource utilization and environmental quality.

Description:

The U.S. is undergoing a dramatic demographic transformation toward older adults, spearheaded by the aging Baby Boomers, but projected to last beyond the Boomer generation. There has been little discussion in the environmental community, however, about the impact of the aging society in relation to natural resource utilization and environmental quality. In August 2004, EPA held a workshop on (1) the change in aging demographics over time, (2) key issues (i.e., socio-economic, geographic) affecting demographic projections, (3) the potential impacts of an aging population on natural resources and environmental quality and (4) the research needed to ensure both the desired amenities for this aging population and the protection of natural resources. A diverse group of individuals, including human demographers, physicians and health officials, Ecologists, risk assessors, private sector developers, consultants, and representatives from tribes and NGOs were invited to this workshop in August 2004 to discuss potential environmental impacts from an aging population and possible research needed to assess these environmental impacts. This workshop report is the result of these interactions. The report is also intended to serve as a foundation for a research plan that embodies the excitement and holistic approach generated at the workshop to evaluate the effects of an aging population on the environment.

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