Ámsterdam abraza la "Economía del dónut"

Summary

A new economic model, the 'doughnut economy,' is emerging as a response to the unsustainable practices of the current system. This model, proposed by economist Kate Raworth, promotes societal prosperity within planetary boundaries, focusing on fulfilling basic human needs while preserving the Earth's ecological stability. Amsterdam is already implementing this approach, aiming to balance social wellbeing and environmental health by transforming sectors, adopting renewable energy, and embracing sustainable practices like circular economies and regenerative agriculture. This shift challenges infinite growth and promotes a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

Takeaways

• 😀 A new alternative economic system is emerging, with the potential to change the world, as demonstrated by Amsterdam adopting it officially.
• 😀 The 'Donut Economics' model, created by economist Kate Raworth, advocates for thriving as a society in harmony with the planet, emphasizing both social and environmental limits.
• 😀 The model is based on planetary boundaries, defined by Swedish economist Johan Rockström, which include critical issues like climate change, pollution, and species loss.
• 😀 The diagram representing this model consists of two concentric circles: an inner one defining basic human needs (food, water, healthcare, etc.) and an outer one representing the planet's ecological limits.
• 😀 The space between these two circles represents a 'safe and just space' where humanity can thrive, balancing both societal needs and environmental sustainability.
• 😀 The goal is not infinite economic growth, which would lead to planetary collapse, but to focus on human well-being within ecological limits.
• 😀 Human well-being is defined as the fulfillment of basic needs for all, within the 'safe space' where society and the environment can coexist and prosper.
• 😀 This model critiques the market system that has contributed to environmental disasters, such as the sixth mass extinction, global warming, and plastic pollution.
• 😀 Amsterdam is actively working on a budget that accounts for its ecological footprint, setting ambitious targets to stay within the planet's safe limits.
• 😀 Some sectors, especially the most polluting ones, need to transform or disappear, while clean, efficient alternatives (such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, and regenerative agriculture) must take their place.
• 😀 The approach requires a holistic, multifaceted solution, integrating a variety of proposals and technologies to prevent exceeding the biosphere's regenerative capacity and ensure sustainable living conditions.

Q & A

What is the 'donut' model discussed in the script?

The 'donut' model is an economic theory created by British economist Kate Raworth. It emphasizes thriving as a society within the boundaries of ecological sustainability and social well-being. The model represents a balance between fulfilling basic human needs while staying within the planet's ecological limits.

Who defined the planetary boundaries referenced in the donut model?

The planetary boundaries were first defined by Swedish scientist Johan Rockström. He identified nine fundamental processes crucial to the stability of Earth, such as climate change, pollution, and species loss.

How is the donut model visually represented?

The donut model is represented as a diagram with two concentric circles. The inner circle defines the essential human needs, such as food, water, healthcare, and equality, while the outer circle represents the ecological limits that must not be surpassed to prevent environmental destruction.

What is the concept of the 'comfort zone' in the donut model?

The 'comfort zone' is the space between the inner and outer circles, where societies can thrive. It represents a balanced state where human needs are met without exceeding the planet's ecological capacity.

Why is economic growth defined as a limited concept in the donut model?

Economic growth is limited in the donut model because infinite growth on a finite planet would lead to resource depletion and environmental collapse. The goal is to prioritize well-being over unrestrained economic expansion.

What role does well-being play in the donut model?

Well-being in the donut model is achieved when basic human needs are met within the ecological limits. It shifts the focus from endless growth to sustainable prosperity for all.

What are some of the consequences of ignoring ecological limits, as mentioned in the script?

Ignoring ecological limits has led to severe consequences such as the sixth mass extinction of species, accelerated climate change, and the pollution of oceans with plastic, which threatens the sustainability of human life.

How is Amsterdam implementing the donut model?

Amsterdam is working on a budget that accounts for the ecological footprint of the goods it imports and consumes. The city aims to stay within the comfort zone by setting ambitious goals to reduce its environmental impact while improving social welfare.

What are some strategies mentioned in the script to achieve sustainability in the donut model?

The strategies include transitioning to renewable energy, protecting natural spaces, utilizing green hydrogen as an alternative fuel, promoting energy efficiency, implementing a circular economy, and adopting regenerative agriculture practices.

What does the script suggest is the role of cities in achieving a sustainable future?

Cities, where a large portion of the global population resides, play a crucial role in implementing the donut model. Amsterdam's approach serves as an example, showing that urban areas can lead the way in integrating sustainability into economic systems.