Downscaling Planetary Boundaries to the National Level: A Review of Methods and Indicators

Abstract

The practical implementation of the planetary boundaries’ (PB) conceptual implications is a challenge from the perspective of both global and national governance. (Schmidt, 2013; Biermann & Kim, 2020) This paper reviews the methods and indicators used in subsequent studies which focus on downscaling the PB concept to the national level. The conclusions confirm significant progress in identifying appropriate national indicators; however, also point at the need for further research to (1) develop a complex downscaling methodology; (2) consider additional variables to ensure just and equitable allocation principles; and (3) mainstream the PB into national policies.

Keywords

• planetary boundaries
• environmental limits
• sustainability