The Case for Degrowth: A Path to a More Sustainable and Equitable Society

The Case for Degrowth

by Giorgos Kallis

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	301 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	140 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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In his book "The Case for Degrowth", Giorgos Kallis argues that the pursuit of endless economic growth is incompatible with the goal of environmental sustainability. He proposes degrowth, a planned reduction in energy and resource use, as a necessary step towards a more sustainable and equitable society.

The Problem with Growth

Kallis begins by outlining the environmental problems that are caused by economic growth. He argues that growth is a major driver of climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. He also shows how growth can lead to social inequality and financial instability.

Kallis's argument is supported by a wealth of evidence. For example, a study by the United Nations Environment Programme found that the global economy is currently using 1.5 times the resources that the planet can sustainably provide. This overconsumption is leading to a wide range of environmental problems, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity.

The Case for Degrowth

In light of the environmental and social problems caused by growth, Kallis argues that we need to transition to a degrowth economy. Degrowth is a planned reduction in energy and resource use. It is not about going back to a pre-industrial society, but rather about creating a more sustainable and equitable economy that operates within the limits of the planet.

Kallis outlines a number of different ways to achieve degrowth. These include reducing our consumption of energy and resources, investing in renewable energy, and shifting to a more localized and sustainable food system. He also argues that we need to change our economic system so that it is no longer based on endless growth.

The Benefits of Degrowth

Kallis argues that degrowth would have a number of benefits, including:

• Reduced environmental impact
• Increased social equity
• Improved quality of life
• Greater economic resilience

Kallis acknowledges that degrowth would not be without its challenges. However, he argues that the benefits of degrowth far outweigh the costs. He also provides a number of concrete proposals for how to transition to a degrowth economy.

In "The Case for Degrowth", Giorgos Kallis makes a compelling argument for the need to transition to a degrowth economy. He shows how growth is incompatible with environmental sustainability and social equity. He also outlines a number of ways to achieve degrowth and the benefits that would result from it.

Kallis's book is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the future of our planet. It is a timely and important contribution to the debate about how to create a more sustainable and equitable society.

The Case for Degrowth

by Giorgos Kallis

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	301 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	140 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE