PLANETARY BOUNDARIES
Ocean acidifcation: We need to limit the amount of
carbon dioxide we emit into the ocean, which can make
the water more acidic and harm marine life.
Chemical pollution: We need to limit the amount of toxic
chemicals we release into the environment, which can
harm human health and wildlife.
Atmospheric aerosol loading: We need to limit the
amount of tiny particles in the air, which can afect human
health and climate.
Introduction of novel entities: We need to limit the
introduction of new, man-made chemicals and other
entities into the environment, which can harm
ecosystems and human health.
By understanding and respecting these boundaries, we
can help ensure that our planet remains healthy and able
to support human life and biodiversity for generations to
come.
THE PLANETARY
BOUNDARIES AND WHAT
THEY MEAN FOR THE
FUTURE OF HUMANITY
The way we use things and do business and the
associated overuse of resource are pushing our
planet’s environmental systems to the limits of their
stability.
The nine planetary boundaries are limits that scientists
have identifed as crucial for maintaining a stable and
healthy planet. These boundaries help us understand how
we can use the planet's resources without damaging it.
Here are the nine planetary boundaries:
Climate change: We need to limit the amount of
greenhouse gases we emit into the atmosphere to avoid
dangerous levels of global warming.
Biodiversity loss: We need to protect the diferent
species of plants and animals on the planet, so that
ecosystems can continue to function and provide us with
important services like clean air and water.
Land use change: We need to limit the amount of land we
convert for agriculture, urbanization, and other uses, so
that natural ecosystems and their biodiversity can persist.
Nitrogen and phosphorus cycles: We need to limit the
amount of nitrogen and phosphorus we add to the
environment, which can lead to pollution and harm
ecosystems.
Freshwater use: We need to limit the amount of
freshwater we take from rivers, lakes, and aquifers, so that
there's enough for everyone and for the environment.