Life on Earth is in a planetary emergency driven
by escalating human pressures and the crossing of
multiple planetary boundaries. Climate change, bio-
diversity loss, pollution, land degradation, and re-
source depletion are intensifying and placing increas-
ing strain on the natural systems that support life.
These pressures are already affecting food, water,
health, and economic stability in many parts of the
world, most severely for those who contributed least
to causing them. Many of the actions needed to ad-
dress this emergency would also improve daily life
for billions of people. Reducing fossil fuel use, restor-
ing ecosystems, cutting pollution, and expanding ac-
cess to basic services can lead to cleaner air and
water, healthier populations, and more secure food
and energy systems. We identify six broad areas
where major transformations are needed, including
a rapid shift away from fossil fuels, increased pro-
tection and restoration of nature, aligning economic
systems with planetary limits, reduced overconsump-
tion in wealthy societies, transitions to sustainable
food systems, and greater social and gender equity
through improved access to education, healthcare,
and basic services. Progress in all of these areas will
depend on just and effective governance, renewed
international cooperation, and shifts in societal val-
ues and norms that support more sustainable rela-
tionships with each other and with nature. Human-
ity has the knowledge, tools, and resources needed
to rapidly reduce environmental pressures while im-
proving human well-being.