Planetary Boundaries

Explore the concept of planetary boundaries, a scientific framework that identifies the environmental limits within which humanity can safely operate.

Why Some Boundaries Matter More Than Others

While all nine boundaries are important, scientists highlight two as core boundaries: climate change and biosphere integrity. These boundaries are central to maintaining the stability of the whole system. If either is significantly breached, it could cause cascading effects on all other boundaries.

For example, if climate change accelerates beyond control, it could lead to more land degradation, freshwater shortages, and biodiversity loss. Similarly, widespread extinction of species weakens ecosystems, which in turn reduces natural carbon sinks and worsens climate change.

The framework also recognizes that some boundaries are more uncertain than others. Novel entities and aerosol loading, for example, are not fully quantified, but they are still cause for concern.

Understanding which boundaries are most urgent allows governments, industries, and individuals to prioritize action. But the message of the framework is clear: staying within all nine boundaries is the safest path forward.