Calling for Systemic change at Villars Summit
26/03/2025
At the 2025 Villars Summit, the Earth Commission emphasized the urgent need for transformative systems change to address the climate and biodiversity crises. It also stressed the importance of collaborative action, as no single entity can drive the necessary changes alone.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks, nearly 300 experts, entrepreneurs, investors, and philanthropists gathered last week to confront these pressing challenges. And they have no time to lose.
2024 was the hottest year on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Meanwhile, biodiversity loss is accelerating at an alarming rate, with recent estimates showing species extinctions occurring far above the natural baseline.
But these two emergencies cannot be viewed in isolation, nor can they be solved independently of one another. As the Commission has previously reported, interconnected global systems are essential for a stable, resilient planet where life can thrive.
Our community needs to act better as an ecosystem. No single alliance, organisation, government, company or institution, can make the difference alone.
Jane Madgwick, GCA Executive Director
That’s why the Earth Commission and its Global Commons Alliance partners joined the global gathering at the Villars Institute Summit 2025, to unite behind systems change for a safe and just future.
This bold ambition was woven throughout the summit’s sessions, where leaders across sectors aligned on the urgent need for systemic transformation to safeguard the global commons we all depend on.
Ahead of the main summit, Commissioners presented and unpacked the latest science assessed by the Earth Commission, demonstrating how transformative changes in economic systems, resource management, and technology can help restore planetary stability.
Co-chair Johan Rockström underscored the critical need for policies grounded in Earth system science to reshape economies and societies for sustainability. Commissioner David Obura explored strategies to stimulate systemic change for the global commons and how science can drive policy.
Key discussions focused on integrating nature-based solutions and the importance of cross-sector collaboration. The summit concluded that these approaches are vital for building resilience and mitigating climate risks, securing a sustainable future for the planet. And above all, doing it together.
“Our community needs to act better as an ecosystem. No single alliance, organisation, government, company or institution, can make the difference alone,” said Jane Madgwick, the GCA’s Executive Director.
For more insights from the week, visit here.
