Un scientists warn planet faces environmental collapse but offer $20 trillion solution

The world stands at a critical environmental crossroads, according to a stark new United Nations report that warns of accelerating climate disasters, mass species extinction, and deadly pollution—but also charts a path toward unprecedented economic opportunity.

The 7th Global Environment Outlook, released December 9 and compiled by 287 scientists from 82 countries, paints a sobering picture of planetary decline. Environmental destruction now costs trillions of dollars annually while pollution kills approximately 9 million people each year. The data reveals alarming trends: greenhouse gas emissions have climbed 1.5% annually since 1990, up to 40% of global land has been degraded, and 1 million species face extinction under current trajectories.

However, the report breaks new ground by offering concrete solutions with massive economic potential. Scientists estimate that strategic investments in planetary health could generate at least $20 trillion in annual economic gains by 2070—demonstrating that environmental action represents opportunity, not burden. The proposed transformation spans five critical systems: energy, food production, finance, materials, and environmental management.

“The way we’re producing and using energy and food today is leading to environmental degradation,” explained Robert Watson, former IPCC chair and report co-author. “If we want to limit climate change and biodiversity loss, we have to deal with the underlying causes.” The scientists emphasize that comprehensive societal changes could simultaneously reduce pollution, minimize climate risks, and lift hundreds of millions out of poverty and hunger, proving that environmental and economic prosperity can advance together.