The thin line between earth and life

Abstract

The Earth is reportedly perilously close to a tipping point that would drive the planet into an irreversible condition that might be catastrophic for humankind if it were to be reached. A group of scientists from all over the world has come together to make this claim. It is thought that the Earth is about to go through changes on a global scale, which would have an effect not only on the global ecosystems of animals and plants but also on the global water and food supply. In a conference, it was reported that within the next 40 years, there would be a 50% increase in the demand for potable water, a 70% increase in the demand for food, and a roughly 100% increase in the energy demand. All of these will take place at the same time as we need to take action to address issues such as climate change, the depletion of rivers and aquifers, and the destruction of forests. This article has proposed for a call to enlighten people in the academic community to be a part of the solution and, at the very least, perhaps undertake mitigation activities to bend the curve of constantly rising numbers for greenhouse gases, ecological footprint, and environmental damage.