Final answer:
The question relates to the global distribution of population, particularly the fact that only 13% of the world's population resides in the influential triad regions of North America, Western Europe, and East Asia. These areas hold a disproportionate amount of the world's income compared to their population size, highlighting global economic and demographic disparities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding global demographic trends involves looking at the distribution of populations and their impact on the economy, environment, and society. When we mention that only 13% of the world's population lives in the triad, we are referring to the three regions or zones (North America, Western Europe, and East Asia) that dominate in terms of global economics and politics. Despite having a minor proportion of the overall global population, these areas have significant influence. The triad contrasts with low and middle-income countries where the population distribution is much broader and economic power significantly different.
For instance, high-income countries, which represent a part of the triad, have 63% of the world's income but make up only 15.7% of the global population. On the other hand, low-income countries represent less than 1% of global income and comprise 8.6% of the global population. The cultural, economic, and demographic dynamics underline the profound regional inequalities present around the globe.
It's noteworthy that the global population distribution has evolved, with more than 55% living in urban areas, which has implications for resources such as freshwater, where only 2.5 percent is freshwater and less than 1 percent is easily accessible to living things. These statistical figures offer an essential lens to view population density, rural and urban population ratios, and how the triad regions compare to less developed countries (LDCs).