Global Risks Perceptions Report 2021

The Global Risks Scientists’ Perceptions Report 2021 presents the results of the second iteration of a global survey aimed at capturing how scientists perceive pressing global risks. Conducted between June 16 and July 28, 2021, the survey targeted scientists affiliated with Future Earth, the International Science Council, and the International Observatory on the Social Impacts of AI and Digital Technology. Among the 35 risks assessed, biodiversity loss, climate action failure, extreme weather, human environmental damage, and infectious disease were identified as the top threats requiring immediate global action. Notably, inequality emerged as the most significant additional risk identified by respondents. The report underscores that improving risk assessment requires a deeper understanding of how global risks are interconnected, including their potential to compound one another and trigger cascading effects.