‘Planetary boundaries’ necessary for flourishing of life have been massively breached, scientists warn

New report shows key indicators of Earth’s health are ‘outside the safe operating space’ as climate disaster looms

The planetary life support systems relied upon by humans have deteriorated to their worst levels ever recorded amid ongoing pollution and habitat destruction, according to a key yet grim annual update by scientists.

Of the nine “planetary boundaries” that help determine whether life can flourish on Earth, seven are being breached at their highest ever levels of transgression, according to the latest planetary health check, a process that was established in 2009.