The Planetary Boundaries framework has now been updated, published in Science on 16 January 2015. Read more here and find the figures and data from the 2015 article here.
The framework was first introduced in 2009, when a group of 28 internationally renowned scientists identified and quantified the first set of nine planetary boundaries within which humanity can continue to develop and thrive for generations to come. Crossing these boundaries could generate abrupt or irreversible environmental changes. Respecting the boundaries reduces the risks to human society of crossing these thresholds.
In this TED talk from 2010 Johan Rockström introduces the Planetary Boundaries framework
Since the planetary boundaries were first presented, researchers from around the world have been working to advance the concept.
Read more about ongoing research here
The Centre is currently running an online course together with SDSN entitled "Planetary Boundaries and Human Opportunities". Read more about the online course here
Discussions of the Planetary Boundaries concept:
Will Steffen, Johan Rockström and Katherine Richardson respond to critique in the New York Times' Dot Earth blog (scroll to bottom of page)(2015 paper)
Johan Rockström: addressing some key misconceptions (2009 paper)
Planetary Boundaries concept is valuable for policy (2009 paper)
