Planetary Boundarys

Question 1

Planetary Boundaries concept

Answer 1

Identifies 9 key Earth systems that are vital for life on Earth

Question 2

Planetary Boundaries concept: Purpose

Answer 2

• To define a “safe operating space for humanity” (a zone where human development can continue without causing irreversible damage to the planet)
• It serves as a warning system: crossing these boundaries could lead to dangerous changes in Earth’s systems

Question 3

Planetary Boundaries concept: Addressees

Answer 3

The framework is meant to guide:
- Governments
- Businesses
- Scientists
- NGOs
- Citizens
in making decisions that support sustainable development.

Question 4

Planetary Boundaries concept: Earth Systems

Answer 4

• Biosphere integrity
• Climate change
• Land-system change
• Freshwater change
• Nutrient cycles
• Ocean acidification
• Aerosol pollution
• Ozone
• Novel entities (which includes pollutants like plastic)