WHAT WE DO
Life on Earth depends on clean air and water, biodiversity, healthy oceans, and a stable climate. These are the global commons: the shared resources that are essential for a habitable planet. The Earth Commission synthesizes the latest science to define these limits, ensuring that the planet remains stable (safe) and everything living on it can thrive (just). The ‘Safe and Just Boundaries’ are becoming the foundation for future sustainability targets and practices. The Commission also explores the transformations that are required to live within the Safe and Just Space for people and planet.
WHAT'S NEW?
New study flags tipping risks in ocean circulation
Growing evidence shows that the oceans’ circulation systems can “tip” in a warming climate. The evidence is less clear for the monsoon systems, according to a new study led by Earth Commission researchers.
Explore our impact
With our 2025 impact report, find out how the Earth Commission is defining the boundaries for a livable planet and charting pathways for transformation. Read it for a deep dive into our work and inspiration to help build a safe and just future.
Social science perspectives critical for just transformations
At a recent conference, participants received a sneak peek at the Earth Commission’s narratives of transformations to a safe and just world.
At the UN Ocean Conference 2025
Members of the Earth Commission and the Global Commons Alliance attended the UN Ocean Conference from June 9-13 in Nice, France, to accelerate action to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.
WHO WE ARE
The Earth Commission is an international team of leading social and natural scientists, supported by a scientific secretariat and external experts, organised in four workstreams. The Commissioners have extensive experience in interdisciplinary research and international science-policy collaborations.
Publications
Find research from Earth Commission working groups, collaborative reports and groundbreaking scientific papers about the transformation toward a safe and just future.
OUR HOSTS
Future Earth
The world’s largest network of sustainability scientists, Future Earth harnesses the experience and reach of tens of thousands of scholars from across the globe. Our commissioners are appointed through a process convened by Future Earth, which also hosts its secretariat.
Global Commons Alliance
A coalition of scientists, philanthropists, civil society groups, and businesses, the Global Commons Alliance enables collective action to accelerate systems change and stewardship of the global commons. The Commission forms the alliance’s scientific backbone.
RESOURCES
Learn more about the Earth Commission’s work by exploring our scientific visuals and explainers as well as useful resources about the Safe and Just Boundaries.