In this unit, learn about the Earth’s boundaries, and how they are being overstepped by human activity.
Learning objectives:
- Understand how planetary boundaries represent human impacts on Earth’s systems.
- Find stakeholders and experts to contextualise complex information.
GreenComp alignment:
- Systems thinking
This unit could be used in science or geography classes.
Unit project:
Students will localise the topic of planetary boundaries, using a tool to find out which planetary boundaries their country is contributing to crossing. Students will then conduct research to find out who they could interview about the different planetary boundaries that their country is contributing towards.
Time frame:
We recommend spending two classes on this unit. The first class should be focused on the text, allowing students to discuss and comprehend sections. The second class should be focused on research and the project.
Lesson slides are linked to in the lesson pdf.
Other resources for further reading
Online resources:
Stockholm Resilience Centre
- Planetary Boundaries (interactive framework and visuals).
https://www.stockholmresilience.org/research/planetary-boundaries.html
- Interactive digital learning tool based on the Planetary Boundaries framework which helps better understand Earth system sustainability challenges by linking them to chemistry concepts. https://planetaryboundaries.kcvs.ca
University of Leeds
- Tool allowing to compare countries’ performance on meeting people’s needs within planetary boundaries. https://goodlife.leeds.ac.uk/
- Compilation of external resources on living well within planetary boundaries. https://goodlife.leeds.ac.uk/related-research/useful-resources/
