Planetary Terminology

Human societies and biodiversity on Earth are under threat because human resource consumption is exceeding or threatening the physical and ecological boundaries of our planet.  To discuss and address the challenges, find solutions, and take urgent measures to tackle climate change, the terminology used in discussions about planetary phenomena, cultural development, and concepts of planetary sustainability must be defined, clarified, and agreed.  Life is a planetary phenomenon and arguably the most interesting phenomenon observed on planetary surfaces.  The concept of planetary sustainability has to be placed in the alarming context of such planetary phenomena as global warming and understood as sustainable development and the use of Earth's resources within the planetary boundaries.