World in Transition

The world's living resources are experiencing a major crisis and unprecedented rates of extinction. The scientists of the German Advisory Council on Global Change present a fundamental review of: 1) the condition of the biosphere; 2) the pressures it is under from human activities; 3) current policies; 4) the research agenda and strategy needed; and 5) a plan of action to conserve the essential planetary services it supplies. These include putting at least 10 per cent of the Earth's land area under protection to preserve the integrity of bioregions and biological resources, safeguard our natural heritage and secure the vital functions such as carbon absorption that the biosphere provides.