ESD Ideas: Exoplanet, origins of life and biosphere researchers offer a perspective fundamental to ensuring humanity's future

We are at a crucial moment in human history. Earth's natural systems are in extreme flux and threaten the health of civilization (Romanello et al., 2022). Continued human-induced climate and ecosystem disruption (IPCC, 2023) demonstrates that human power structures are built to function as though they were distinct from nature. No one would set their house on fire unless they believed themselves to be immune to the flames, and yet we are setting our house on fire. The collective response over the next 10–15 years by the political, economic and social powers that have precipitated these crises will determine humanity's future over the next millennium. Acknowledging the deep resilience and interdependence of the Earth–life system is a necessary step to mapping a sustainable future. Scientists exploring the histories of planets and life are uniquely positioned to communicate a perspective that is fundamental to our survival: humanity is wholly embedded in Earth and its biosphere. There is no escaping our planet and its history. Here we offer a few brief glimpses of this cosmic perspective and argue that it should inform policies that seek to build a flourishing future for humanity. We call on our colleagues to acknowledge the powerful stories emanating from their work.