关键词: 地球系统科学, 可持续发展, 科学基础

Abstract: The framework of the young earth system science as the basis of strategies for sustainable development is discussed in conjunction with a brief account of its rise and development from studies onthe climatic system. There is the need for collaboration across the natural and social sciences. Integrated assessment of global and regional environmental changes is indispensable. When what can bedone to moderate or mitigate the impacts of these changes is under consideration.With regard tosustainable development, the time span is generally kept within one or two handred years.and theearth system involved consists of land, oceans and atmosphere together with the exchange of matterand energy across their interfaces.While land is the centre of socio-economic development and thescene of most complicated natural conditions,it lags behind in earth system research. Geographersare urged to make up the deficits.

Key words: earth system science, sustainable development, scientific basis