I will learn more about planetary boundaries. Fact: For the first time, an international team of scientists can provide a detailed outline of planetary limits for all nine boundary processes that define a safe operating space for humanity. Source: Stockholm Resilience Centre
In 2009, scientists proposed nine planetary boundaries within which humanity can safely operate. At that time they did not identify exact limits nor offer solutions to achieving them.
In 2012, an Oxfam report by Kate Raworth combined the concept of planetary boundaries with the complementary concept of social boundaries. Between these boundaries lies a doughnut-shaped space that is both ecologically safe and socially just.
In 2023, scientists quantified all nine planetary boundaries for the first time establishing an ecological ceiling. They concluded that six of the boundaries have already been crossed.
We can pull back from the boundaries crossed. The boundary for ozone depletion was exceeded in the 1990s but we reversed that. To mitigate global warming, we can cut emissions and begin to draw down CO2. To save a functional biosphere for future generations, we can preserve existing wildlife habitat and begin to restore what has been lost. There is so much we can do…
Learn more
- Planetary boundaries: Stockholm Resilience Centre
- About Doughnut Economics: DEAL
- All planetary boundaries mapped out for the first time: Stockholm Resilience Centre
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