Living beyond limits: Consequences of missing the decisive decade for preserving our planet’s life-supporting systems [Commentary]

Rockström, J. ; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8988-2983; Schlosser, P.; Bhowmik, A.; Cremades, R.; Donges, J. ; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5233-7703; Dyke, J.; Ebi, K.; Heilemann, A.; Jacob, D.; Mirazo, P.; Moreno Ramírez, D.; Nakicenovic, N.; Otto, I.; Prettenthaler, F.; Ranganathan, J.; Schellnhuber, H.; Warren, R.; Wu, H.

Living beyond limits: Consequences of missing the decisive decade for preserving our planet’s life-supporting systems [Commentary]

Publication Database PIK (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)) 2026

Authors: Rockström, J. ; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8988-2983, Schlosser, P., Bhowmik, A., Cremades, R., Donges, J. ; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5233-7703, Dyke, J., Ebi, K., Heilemann, A., Jacob, D., Mirazo, P., Moreno Ramírez, D., Nakicenovic, N.

+6 more

Otto, I., Prettenthaler, F., Ranganathan, J., Schellnhuber, H., Warren, R., Wu, H.

Cited by: 0

Abstract

Humanity faces its ultimate challenge due to its failure so far in addressing the escalating risks, which are pushing the world into a deepening crisis. We have to rapidly adopt new pathways that reduce negative impacts and optimize regeneration. Today, we exceed our planet’s capacity to sustain life, depriving billions of basic needs amid rising conflict. Yet, with collective will, we can bridge the gap between knowledge and action to safeguard life-support on Earth.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Innovation Sustainability Human-Machine Systems Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life Environmental Ecological and Cultural Studies

Publication details

Journal / source: Publication Database PIK (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK))
Publication date: 20 February 2026
Language: EN