An Aspirational Approach to Planetary Futures in Nature

Our commission member Prof. Erle Ellis, Prof. Bojie Fu and other collaborators published a perspective paper in Nature on 25 June 2025, titled "An Aspirational Approach to Planetary Futures". The paper proposed a framework to reimagine the human–nature relationship called Nature Relationship Index (NRI).

This new vision-driven framework addresses a key gap in current progress metrics like the Human Development Index (HDI), which focus on human development's negative environmental impacts. The NRI instead proactively measures a country's progress toward a mutually beneficial relationship with nature across three dimensions: thriving and accessible nature, responsible use and care of nature, and effective governance for nature.

Grounded in the principles of human agency, synergy between development and conservation, and a widespread aspiration for human-nature harmony, the NRI aims to shift the global narrative from crisis to positive action. It is slated for inclusion in the 2026 Human Development Report, with the long-term goal of regular updates to inspire policies and decisions that foster a prosperous future for both people and the planet.