Polar regions are critical in achieving global sustainable development goals

Xin Li (), Huadong Guo, Guodong Cheng, Xiaoyu Song, Youhua Ran, Min Feng, Tao Che, Xinwu Li, Lei Wang, Anmin Duan, Donghui Shangguan, Deliang Chen, Rui Jin, Jie Deng, Jianbin Su and Bin Cao
Additional contact information
Xin Li: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Huadong Guo: International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals
Guodong Cheng: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xiaoyu Song: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Youhua Ran: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Min Feng: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Tao Che: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xinwu Li: International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals
Lei Wang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Anmin Duan: Xiamen University
Donghui Shangguan: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Deliang Chen: University of Gothenburg
Rui Jin: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Jie Deng: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Jianbin Su: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Bin Cao: Chinese Academy of Sciences

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract As important components of global commons, environmental changes in polar regions are crucial to the local and global sustainability. However, they have received little attention in the current framework of sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study examines the impacts of climate change in polar regions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these areas with other parts of the global system. Here we show that polar regions are a limiting factor in achieving global SDGs, similar to the “shortest stave” in Liebig’s barrel, primarily due to the teleconnection effects of climate tipping elements. Proactive actions should ensure polar regions aren’t left behind in achieving global SDGs. We proposed a specific SDG target and five indicators for the interconnected effect of the cryosphere on climate actions and incorporate considerations for Indigenous peoples in polar regions. With the right actions and strengthened global partnerships, polar regions can be pivotal for advancing global sustainable development.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59178-3

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