Overview
Earth Commission is an international scientific initiative established to synthesise the latest environmental research and define the thresholds within which Earth’s systems can remain stable and equitable for people and the planet. It was convened by Future Earth, the world’s largest network of sustainability scientists, and brings together natural and social scientists from across the globe to examine planetary stability and human wellbeing. Its core work centres on identifying “safe and just Earth system boundaries” that delineate limits for climate, freshwater, biodiversity, nutrients and air quality.
Mission and focus areas
Earth Commission’s primary goal is to establish scientifically quantified boundaries that ensure planetary systems remain resilient while minimising significant harm to human populations. This dual focus on safety and justice aims to provide a unified framework that can guide transformational pathways towards a stable and equitable future. The Commission’s research contributes to the development of sustainability targets that can inform policy, business and city planning, aligning with broader sustainable development and environmental stewardship goals. Its work underpins science-based frameworks that can influence sustainability strategy, risk management and long-term value creation for practitioners in finance and ESG sectors.
Structure and governance
Earth Commission is governed by a diverse team of commissioners drawn from leading academic and research institutions worldwide. The core secretariat is hosted by Future Earth and collaborates with partners including the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, and other research bodies. Commissioners volunteer their time to contribute scientific expertise, supported by working groups focusing on specific domains of the Earth system. This collaborative structure integrates interdisciplinary science into a coherent research programme.
Programs and offerings
The Commission’s key outputs include peer-reviewed publications, most notably the flagship report on Safe and Just Earth System Boundaries published in Nature in 2023. It produces scientific briefs, explainer resources and synthesis papers that articulate the quantified limits for essential Earth system processes. These resources are designed to support science-based target setting and provide analytical tools for sectors aiming to align operations with global sustainability thresholds. The Commission’s outputs serve as reference material for researchers, policymakers, corporations and sustainability practitioners seeking evidence-based guidance on planetary limits.
