Redlands Forum explores what it means to have a healthy planet

REDLANDS – The latest Redlands Forum featured Dr. Nicholas Reksten, associate professor and co-chair of the Economics Department at the University of Redlands, in a discussion titled “What is a Healthy Planet? Moving Towards a Common Framework to Guide Policy and Action.” The event took place March 26 at Esri’s auditorium.

Reksten examined the state of the planet and its implications for society and sustainability efforts. He discussed the Planetary Boundaries framework, developed by Johan Rockström and colleagues, which provides a global “health check” by identifying nine key indicators of environmental stability. These include climate, biodiversity, ocean acidification, and the introduction of novel entities, among others, along with their interconnections. He also explored how this framework can guide policy, governance, and community action, drawing from his research and teaching.

“These are limits beyond which humans risk severe or even catastrophic environmental changes at continental to global scales,” Reksten said. “These boundaries are driven by forces that are non-negotiable—the laws of physics govern them.”

Reksten emphasized that assessing the health of the planet reveals a dire situation, made even more complex by the interactions of social and economic systems. “One of the important aspects of this health check is that we’re dealing with multiple, interconnected complex systems,” he said. “The idea is to define boundaries—thresholds we shouldn’t cross—and develop ways to measure our impact.” He added, “In climate science, there’s an old saying: You can’t negotiate with physics.”

Closing his remarks, Reksten stressed the urgency of proactive change. “If we don’t act, change will be forced upon us,” he said. “The question is: How much control will we have over what happens to us as a society? Are we going to be swept along by events, or can we shape a future that’s sustainable and innovative? If we don’t take the lead in the United States, others will—and they may not do it as efficiently.”

Reksten has been with the University of Redlands since 2016, specializing in sustainability, social justice, and the economic impacts of climate policy. His research focuses on how social norms influence environmental decision-making at corporate and household levels. He holds a Ph.D. in economics and a bachelor’s degree in international studies and economics from American University.

Joining Reksten was Linda Hamilton, executive director of Accelerate Neighborhood Climate Action (ANCA) Redlands, a grassroots organization dedicated to building climate-resilient communities. She shared her vision for a sustainable Redlands and emphasized the importance of informed action.

“I think it’s important to understand what we’re facing so we know not just what to do, but also what not to do,” Hamilton said. “That’s the focus of ANCA—How then shall we live?”

Hamilton has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, including founding FOOD FOR ALL, an organization that raised funds to combat hunger through grocery store donation programs. She has also served as a mentor, trainer, and facilitator for public sector and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, she established Community Climate Connection, a directory linking climate-focused groups throughout the Inland Empire.

The Redlands Forum is a free event series that brings experts and thought leaders to the community to share ideas and insights on a variety of topics. Each program aims to inspire discussion and innovation to help shape a better future.

For more information, visit Esri’s Redlands Forum.