Earth system science represents one of the most challenging frontier scientific fields in today's world. This paper reviewed and analyzed a series of international large-scale scientific programs on global change led by the International Council for Science (ICSU) over the past half-century, including the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP), the International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (IGBP), DIVERSITAS, the International Human Dimensions Programme on Global Environmental Change (IHDP), the Earth System Science Partnership (ESSP), and the Future Earth research initiative for sustainable development. It explored the development process of earth system science driven by these programs and their contributions to promoting sustainable development of human society. The paper also highlighted the significance of China's participation in international large-scale scientific programs and puts forward specific recommendations.

earth system science  /  global change  /  international large-scale scientific program  /  global environmental issues