A planetary boundary is an environmental limit associated with the Earth’s natural systems, beyond which further destabilization of these systems could lead to irreversible changes and potentially catastrophic consequences for humanity. The boundaries identify levels of biological, chemical, and physical tolerances in the Earth’s processes and ecosystems, which are essential for maintaining the planet’s “safe operating space” for human and all other species on our planet. Also known as Planetary Boundary Layer, this concept has been gaining traction, as advancing scientific technologies have helped us measure and understand the intricate nature of our planet’s life support systems.

See also: climate change, carrying capacity, ecological footprint, fossil fuel, green growth