Rethinking Planetary Boundaries: Accounting for Ecological Limits

Madlen Sobkowiak, Juliette Senn and Hendrik Vollmer

Social and Environmental Accountability Journal, 2023, vol. 43, issue 3, 259-272

Abstract: The concept of planetary boundaries offers a framework for understanding and managing humanity’s impact on Earth’s ecological systems. These boundaries mean to delineate a safe operating space in which human activities must remain to ensure the stability of critical Earth processes. Notwithstanding its potential, the planetary boundaries framework faces criticism for its reductionist nature, technocratic approach, and the lack of consideration given to social issues. This commentary explores current accounting research relating to planetary boundaries and emphasises the need for a broader range of interdisciplinary, inclusive, and holistic approaches towards accounting for ecological limits. Drawing from fields such as political ecology, ecofeminism, and environmental justice, we highlight the importance of considering social, economic, and political forces in shaping planetary boundaries. We also recognise the potential challenges in reconciling different forms of accounting for ecological limits and the varieties of knowledge involved. We thus propose maintaining a pluralism of approaches in fostering open communication between the diverse senses and meanings of planetary boundaries and the ecological limits which they articulate. An accounting for planetary boundaries in which diverse ways of knowing, sensing, modelling, and narrating can coexist will encourage, we hope, a more holistic, open, and congenial understanding of our planetary situation.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1080/0969160X.2023.2283019

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