Steven Smith

What do you research?

I research positive social tipping points. A tipping point is the point beyond which self-propelling change occurs in a system, giving rise to a qualitative change to an alternative stable state. Positive social tipping points are tipping points in human systems that have the potential to eliminate or radically reduce the drivers of ‘negative’ Earth system tipping points or the high and increasing costs of climate change impacts and adaptation. The resulting, desired stable state following a positive tipping point may offer a host of other benefits for nature, biodiversity, human health, energy security, democracy, and economic productivity within planetary boundaries.

Why is it so important?

Vital parts of the Earth system may already have reached tipping points. Humanity is now entering a danger zone of civilisational risk that goes beyond local damage or regional conflicts, which could impact global society’s core functioning and future. We need to respond with unprecedented urgency to eliminate the drivers of Earth system tipping points (ESTPs) to limit overshoot of 1.5oC. This transformation needs to happen more than five times faster than current trends. Acceleration of this kind requires positive social tipping points.

A project you are proud of?

Together with partners Democracy x, Claus Meyer, Brøndby Municipality, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, we are currently trying to apply the theory of positive social tipping points to shift dietary choices towards healthy, sustainable food. The project relies upon community engagement, leadership development and combining the joy of cooking and eating plant-rich food in community settings. The project hopes to demonstrate a model for community-led positive change that can be adapted for other towns and cities around the world.

Updated December 2025

Through his participation in Policy Fellowship 2025-2026, Steve is working with Mette Skovbjerg, Head of Unit for the Department of Technology and Environment in Copenhagen Municipality.