What is the TFP?
The Threshold Function Protocol (TFP) is the core prudential mechanism of the c-ECO framework. It functions as a dynamic interface between Earth system science, risk assessment, and legal enforceability — replacing static thresholds with continuous trajectory monitoring.
Rather than relying on binary compliance determinations or ex post liability, the TFP evaluates continuous trajectories across multiple dimensions of risk and reversibility. It produces classifications and effects automatically, based on certified data and predefined functions, without discretionary intervention by managers, regulators, or auditors.
The TFP operates ex ante: it conditions the continuing legal feasibility of execution during periods when reversibility, mitigation, or safe reconfiguration remains materially possible. It does not attach legal consequences to past conduct, but prevents future irreversibility.
Γ = f(P, ΔV, σ, Lr)
The Trigger Function that determines prudential classification
Position
Current distance from the Safe Operating Space (SOS) boundary. Measures proximity to biophysical limits whose transgression compromises habitability or systemic integrity.
Velocity
Temporal rate and direction of deterioration or improvement. Captures whether the system is accelerating toward or retreating from critical thresholds.
Uncertainty
Statistical confidence interval associated with sensors, models, and methodologies. Operates as a conservative prudential factor — uncertainty never expands operational margins.
Reversibility Liquidity
Ratio between immediately mobilizable resources and projected technical cost of containment, mitigation, restoration, or safe decommissioning.
Four Levels of Systemic Response
Level 1
Enhanced Monitoring
Early signals indicate increasing proximity to planetary or sectoral limits, without immediate threat to reversibility. Effects: increased monitoring frequency, enhanced reporting obligations, internal alerts. No restriction on execution rights.
Level 2
Capital Protection
Risk trajectories or liquidity buffers indicate potential erosion of reversibility if uncorrected. Effects: mandatory reinforcement of prudential buffers, partial redirection of cash flows to restoration reserves, activation of margin call logic. Economic friction by design.
Level 3
Systemic Curatorship
Protective execution state — not a default, breach, or insolvency event. Purpose: prevent irreversible loss by temporarily subordinating economic optimization to systemic preservation. Joint Duty Committee formed; cash flow redirected; non-essential obligations suspended.
Level 4
External Intervention
Imminent irreversible trajectory confirmed. Managerial authority suspended; certified Restoration Provider assumes operational control. All pre-established guarantees automatically converted. Restoration objectives supersede all economic claims. Not debt enforcement. Not expropriation. Contractually pre-authorized emergency execution.
"Safe Mode is not default.
Safe Mode is execution reconfiguration."
The TFP overcomes the binary logic of full execution or contractual rupture, allowing modulation, suspension, functional novation, or progressive cessation of obligations according to the identified systemic state.
TFP in the c-ECO Ecosystem
AI Test Design
Validation & verification
TFP Variables
P, ΔV, σ, Lr
Introduction
Protocol overview
Core Concepts
SOS, IEX, Perclusion