General Article Beyond growth: a new path for a sustainable future

Topic Selected: Environment and Sustainability Book Volume: 439

By Charlie Malcolm-McKay

As humanity continues to grapple with the growing impact of climate change, many are questioning the traditional economic model of perpetual growth. Increasingly, experts and thought leaders are discussing an alternative approach – a radical and groundbreaking concept that challenges us to reevaluate our priorities. This idea envisions a world where the quest for profit takes a backseat to the development of resilient, equitable, and environmentally responsible societies.

The case for degrowth

At its core, the concept of degrowth is a vision of a future that is less centred on endless consumption. It is an economic theory that advocates for a radical reduction in contemporary consumerism, with the aim of achieving a sustainable economy. Not only that, but it is also a call for us to rethink our relationship with the natural world and to prioritise the well-being of all people, not just a privileged few. The concept emerged in the 1970s as a response to the l...

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