New research from the Earth Commission

Category:

Report / Paper

Published 2024-09-12

The Earth’s resources are being pushed beyond their limits, but new research from the Earth Commision, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, reveals how transforming economic systems and reducing inequality can ensure prosperity for all.

Urgent action to preserve the safe and just space

New research published in The Lancet Planetary Health reveals that humanity’s window to escape poverty and avoid harm from Earth system change is narrowing. Scientists from the Earth Commission identified the “Safe and Just Space” – the only realm where both people and planet can thrive. However, projections for 2050 show that this space will shrink if urgent transformations do not take place.

Inequality and resource use are driving the crisis

The research emphasizes that inequality in resource access is a key factor in the ongoing environmental crisis. The overconsumption of critical resources like fresh water and nutrients by a minority is causing harm to the planet while providing basic resources for those in need would create far less pressure.

Pathways to transformation

The Safe and Just Space is the only remaining space rich in opportunities – in which people and the planet will remain able to thrive. To reach this space, the paper calls for change in three areas:

  • Coordinated Action
    Achieving change requires collaboration between policymakers, businesses, civil society, and communities to develop new policies and funding mechanisms that address inequality while reducing pressure on the planet’s resources.
  • Equitable Resource Management
    A fairer and more efficient management, sharing, and use of resources is essential, particularly to curb overconsumption in some areas and ensure access to basic resources for those who need them most.
  • Investment in Sustainable Technologies
    Investing in sustainable and affordable technologies is crucial to reducing resource use and reopening the “Safe and Just Space” for everyone, especially where that space has become limited.

Explore the The Lancet Planetary Health Report

Learn how resource sharing can ensure a safe and just future for all.

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