The Planetary Boundaries framework and the environmental impact studies: contributions to addressing the planetary ecological crisis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19180/2177-4560.v19n22025p183-209

Keywords:

Planetary Boundaries, Ecosystem Services, Environmental Impact Studies, Ecological Crisis, Hothouse Earth

Abstract

Despite the abundant evidence related to the intense environmental deterioration of the planet, we continue, daily, to emit high concentrations of carbon dioxide; to release high loads of many other pollutants into the atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere; and, through these actions and many others, to interrupt the regeneration cycles of ecosystems. In this context and considering the importance of environmental impact studies as essential instruments for mitigating planetary environmental deterioration, this research seeks to demonstrate the importance of incorporating knowledge from studies on Planetary Boundaries when conducting environmental impact studies. To support the discussion, the article presents a summary of the knowledge that underlies and is present in the structure of Planetary Boundaries, a presentation that is followed by the identification of possible points of convergence or intersection between said structure and national legislation that discusses environmental impact studies. As a conclusion, the incorporation of studies related to the Planetary Boundaries structure when preparing environmental impact studies is advocated.

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Author Biography

  • Páulea Zaquini, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz
    Mestrado em Saúde Pública pelo Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Tecnologista em Saúde Pública do Fundação Oswaldo Cruz.

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Published

13-12-2025

How to Cite

The Planetary Boundaries framework and the environmental impact studies: contributions to addressing the planetary ecological crisis. Boletim do Observatório Ambiental Alberto Ribeiro Lamego, [S. l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 183–209, 2025. DOI: 10.19180/2177-4560.v19n22025p183-209. Disponível em: https://editoraessentia.iff.edu.br/index.php/boletim/article/view/23525.. Acesso em: 14 dec. 2025.