Ecological collapse

Plastic pollution floating in the sea.

Tipping points looming

Fuelled by the climate crisis and other factors, we are heading towards the breakdown of Earth’s natural habitats and the extinction of many species we rely on, unless current trends are reversed.


Ecosystems have a certain level of resilience and can recover from human impacts with limited negative effects. However, beyond a certain threshold or tipping point, sudden and radical disruption can occur, leading to ecosystem collapse. When soil quality, freshwater supply, and biodiversity diminish drastically, agricultural capacity plummets, and daily human living conditions deteriorate.


Additionally, ecological collapse can have cascading effects on social and economic systems, leading to widespread instability and potentially even global conflict. It is crucial that we prioritise sustainable practices and take action to protect and restore the natural systems upon which our survival depends.

Recommended reports and analyses

Safe and just Earth system boundaries (2023)

Safe and just Earth system boundaries (2023)

New research provides guidance for leaders to operate within Earth’s finite limits.

Read the article in Nature
Ecological collapse – overview (2022)

Ecological collapse – overview (2022)

Open overview
Tipping Points (2022)

Tipping Points (2022)

Open paper

Further reading

Additional reading material can be found in our library.

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