Solutions Pathways
It is still possible for us to slow and even reverse humanity’s effects on our planet.
Implementing solutions requires scientists, policy makers, business leaders and society as a whole to understand the drivers, identify solutions, and build governance that will deliver a sustainable and just future for humanity.
Using the Planetary Boundaries framework to create positive change requires several steps:
Understanding the drivers
What human activity is causing the Planetary Boundaries to be crossed?
Defining transformation pathways
Permanent systems changes are required to ensure long term stability
Setting targets and creating governance
Policymakers and business leaders are crucial to us remaining within Planetary Boundaries
Understanding the drivers
Scientific research has identified the biggest drivers of change in Planetary Boundaries. These include:
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Burning fossil fuels causing increased greenhouse gas emissions
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Large-scale animal farming leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss.
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Deforestation for animal and crop farming and urban expansion
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Increased water use for industry and urban expansion
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Pollution from synthetic chemicals such as plastics and radioactive materials
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Introduction of invasive species
Ongoing research continues to quantify how each driver contributes, and how they interact. This understanding is crucial for setting targets and creating mitigation strategies.
Identify mitigation options
Addressing our impact on Planetary Boundaries requires action in a range of areas:
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Technological Innovations
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Regulatory Interventions
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Lifestyle Changes
Some current example pathways include:
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Stratospheric Ozone Depletion
Proof that we can change our impact on the Earth. In 1987, the Montreal Protocol was adopted and has been effective in phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. This has resulted in a significant recovery of the ozone layer.
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Climate Change
Mitigation options include transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting carbon sequestration. The EU is planning on reducing emissions through carbon pricing, an effective way of pricing externalities. However, global emissions have not yet peaked and continue to rise.
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Land-System Change
One of the most under-addressed yet impactful drivers is land-system change, particularly due to deforestation. Agriculture reforms, and legislative measures to curb production and consumption patterns are essential. Current annual levels of deforestation remain high, necessitating urgent mitigation efforts.
Defining transformation pathways
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Setting targets and creating governance
Implementing short and long- term change requires firm commitment from scientists, policymakers, business leaders and communicators to affirm and enact decisions in line with the Planetary Boundaries framework.
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Science- based targets must be set to guide action and measure progress. Policymakers at regional, national and international levels need to consider both the long-term risks of crossing boundaries, and the short- term benefits of reducing transgressions. The Planetary Health Check will continue to be updated with the latest research and policy information to help inform decision making around the world.
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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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