Earth Systems Near Tipping Point: Report
A new report by a global network of scientists warns that five of Earth's vital systems are close to a point of irreversible change.
The 2025 Global Tipping Points report assesses 25 Earth systems, including coral reefs, forests, and ice sheets, and found that at least one system has likely passed a tipping point, while four others are perilously close.
The Paris Agreement set a goal of limiting global warming to 1.5° Celsius (2.7° Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels by 2100.
The report notes that Earth has already reached an average increase of 1.4°C (2.5°F) over the past couple decades, with warm water coral reefs reaching their tipping point at roughly 1°C.
- Coral reefs
- Forests
- Ice sheets
Author's summary: Earth's vital systems are nearing irreversible change.