Conference Agenda

Tipping points are conditions beyond which changes in social and biophysical systems become self-perpetuating, and may lead to abrupt, irreversible, and dangerous impacts with serious implications for humanity. In this semi-plenary we explore the topic of social tipping points, and the transformations that can lead us to a just and sustainable future. We convene an interdisciplinary group of Earth system scientists to draw on the Earth Commission concept of Earth system boundaries (ESBs) and discuss the transformations necessary to live within the ESBs, avoid tipping points, and perpetuate a safe and just future for people and the planet. With a focus on justice, we place literature on tipping points in conversation with just transformations, and the evolution of the planetary boundaries framework for a lively, insightful discussion on viable futures and how to get there. Topics will include transformative planetary justice in the Anthropocene, interspecies justice, and the need for social and physical scientists and policy-makers and other stakeholders to be in conversation for best possible outcomes.

Panelists:

• Joyeeta Gupta, Professor of environment and development in the global south, University of Amsterdam and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education. Co-chair of the Earth Commission and Spinoza Prize winner
• Tim Lenton, Professor and Founder of Global Systems Institute, University of Exeter, and member of the Earth Commission
• Manjana Milkoreit, PhD, Department of Sociology and Human Geography, University of Oslo

Discussants:

• Diana Liverman, Regents Professor in the University of Arizona, School of Geography, Development, and Environment University of Arizona, co-lead of Earth Commission’s Transformations Working Group
• Chukwumerije Okereke, Professor of Global Climate and Environmental Governance and Director of Center for Climate and Development at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Nigeria. Member of Earth Commission’s Transformations Working Group
• Jane Madgwick, Executive Director, Global Commons Alliance

Moderator:

Lisa Jacobson, Program Manager Earth Commission, Future Earth Global Hub Sweden