Summary
This paper, authored by leading planetary boundaries researchers, defines a science-based planetary boundary for green water—the water from precipitation available to agriculture and natural ecosystems. The work integrates hydrology, agriculture, and Earth system science to propose safe limits on green water consumption, as suggested by the authors' framing within the Rockström planetary boundaries framework (2022). The contribution addresses a critical gap in quantifying sustainable water use at the global scale, distinguishing green water from the more commonly regulated blue (surface and groundwater) resources.
UK applicability
The green water boundary framework is globally applicable but reflects Earth-system constraints; UK applicability depends on how national water policy integrates planetary-scale limits with local hydrological risk. The framework may inform UK agricultural intensification debates and water-stressed region priorities in policy discussions.
Key measures
Green water planetary boundary thresholds; green water flows; agricultural water use; ecosystem water requirements
Outcomes reported
The study proposes a planetary boundary framework for green water (soil moisture and rainfall-derived water used in agriculture and terrestrial ecosystems). It quantifies safe operating limits for global green water consumption relative to ecosystem function and human food security.
Topic tags
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