Talk: Planetary Boundaries — Are we crossing the line?

Thursday 12 February, 7pm-9pm, Lewes Climate Hub, 32 High Street, Lewes, BN7 2LU, FREE – email to book your place

All life on Earth, including human civilization, is sustained by a number of biophysical systems and processes that operate in delicate balance. 

Now, human activity — from rapid population growth to runaway consumption and the pollution and destruction of the natural world — is destabilising these essential Earth systems. As it does, the stability of the ‘safe operating space for humanity’ is under threat.

But how far have we breached the boundaries for these planetary systems and what can be done (and is being done) to address this critical moment for life on earth?

To find out, we warmly invite you to join Bruce Phillips of the Potsdam Planetary Boundaries Science Lab  in conversation from Potsdam, exploring:

• What are the nine planetary boundaries – and which are most under threat?
• How is the Earth system evolving under the pressure of humanity?
• How can we enable positive change, and work towards a return to the safe operating space for humanity?

There will be time for questions and discussion, and refreshments will be provided. To book your free places, email

About Bruce Phillips

Bruce Phillips is the Science Communicator for the Planetary Boundaries Science Lab at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impacts Research (PIK Potsdam). Bruce has 20 years’ experience in science and environmental communication and has worked in Africa, Asia, Europe and Central America. 

He presented research at COP24 on climate solutions education, working alongside media organisations in fact-checking and pushing back against disinformation on social media, and enjoys making films that highlight our amazing planet and the people on it.

Bruce grew up in Sussex in what is now the South Downs National Park, and it is still his favourite place.