Navigating our future within Planetary Boundaries

ABOUT THE LECTURE

Planetary Boundaries Science analyses nine biophysical systems and processes that regulate the functioning of life support on Earth, and ultimately the stability and resilience of the Earth system. The latest science shows that seven of the nine boundaries are now breached, with all of the breached boundaries continuing to move further away from the Safe Operating Space. This talk provides a scientific update of Earth system risks, planetary boundaries science, explores future directions of science, and highlights key transformations towards a safe landing on Earth.

ABOUT NUS120

The National University of Singapore celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2025, commemorating a legacy, forged over generations, of excellence, innovation and service.

As Singapore’s first higher education institution and its flagship university, NUS has been instrumental in nurturing generations of leaders and visionaries who have shaped the nation and beyond. Our 120th anniversary offers a singular milestone to look back on this storied history, while re-affirming our continuing mission to shape the future.

In our line-up of programmes and events for NUS120, we hope to celebrate the legacy and contributions of an institution uniquely established by the community for the community, since our founding in 1905.

NUS120 DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES

The NUS120 Distinguished Lecture Series aims to engage compelling, renowned and influential speakers who will share their unique perspectives on the pressing issues of the future that impact our country, region, and the world. This series explores the overarching theme of “Shaping the Future”, fostering thought-provoking ideas and conversations that inspire meaningful debate and discourse. The lecture brings together students, staff, and alumni of NUS, as well as the industry, government, academia and research community, creating a vibrant forum for invigorating exchange and engagement.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Johan Rockström is Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Professor in Earth System Science at the University of Potsdam and Professor in Water Systems and Global Sustainability at the Stockholm University. He is an internationally recognised scientist on global sustainability issues and led the development of the Planetary Boundaries framework for human development in the current era of rapid global change. Professor Rockström is a leading scientist on global water resources, with more than 25 years experience in applied water research in tropical regions, and more than 150 research publications in fields ranging from applied land and water management to global sustainability. He is, among other commitments, Chair of the Earth Commission and the Earth League, Chief Scientist of Conservation International, and an elected member of the German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

ABOUT THE MODERATOR

Professor Koh Lian Pin is Vice President (Sustainability and Resilience) and Chief Sustainability Scientist at NUS. Helming the University’s sustainability agenda, he brings a range of stakeholders together to enhance the climate resilience and sustainability of Singapore through system-level mitigation and adaptation solutions. He oversees and champions sustainability-related research at the University, tackling the twin planetary crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, through a whole-of-university strategy that bridges academia with policy makers, industry and civil society.