Global Tipping Points Report 2025

Abstract

Harmful tipping points in the natural world threaten humanity by disrupting life support systems and societal stability. The effects of tipping points will be transmitted and amplified throughout our globalised world. To mitigate these risks, we should focus on positive tipping points—opportunities where beneficial changes become self-sustaining. History shows rapid societal shifts are possible. As COP30 approaches, we’ve synthesised the latest research on tipping points – both positive and negative – into the Global Tipping Points Report 2025. A total of 160 authors, from 23 countries and 87 institutions contributed. Together, we’ve consolidated knowledge on how to govern Earth system tipping points, the risks they pose, and the opportunities presented by understanding and acting on positive tipping points.