Overloading with Novel Entities
The introduction and accumulation of human-made substances, such as plastics and synthetic chemicals, along with the alteration of the biogeochemical cycling of naturally occurring elements, can disrupt other important Earth system processes and pose risks of permanent damage to life in the biosphere.
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Microplastics have now been found in our blood streams, in breast milk and at the bottom of the ocean. Forever chemicals (PFAS) are found in the food we eat and clothing we wear. These materials can cause biodiversity loss and the contamination of precious habitats.
Top stories in Novel Entities
Impact
The introduction of novel entities can disrupt critical Earth system processes. For instance, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have notably damaged the ozone layer, fluorinated gasses contribute to climate change by trapping heat, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are involved in aerosol formation, which impacts air quality.
These novel entities also harm ecosystems by affecting the health and functioning of various species. Pesticides, for example, have caused significant declines in insect and pollinator populations. Persistent organic pollutants like PAHs, which come from sources such as vehicle emissions and industrial activities, along with microplastics, inflict physical harm and toxic effects on marine and terrestrial life.
Control Variables
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TBC
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TBC
Drivers
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TBC
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TBC
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TBC
Connected Tipping Points
If the status of this Planetary Boundary continues to deteriorate, it will push many tipping elements toward tipping, including:
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The death of warm-water coral reefs and seagrass
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Collapse of fisheries
Drivers & Interconnections
Human activity is the central contributor to breaching the Planetary Boundaries. Our actions almost always affect the planet in many ways. We need to take a holistic view, considering a whole earth approach to the decisions that we take.
Find out more about tipping points
The most viable areas for positive transformation are in energy generation, land use and consumption of resources. All can have substantial, positive effects on maintaining our safe operating space for humanity.
The Planetary Health Check is an initiative supported by:
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