In this episode we look at ‘green growth’, the idea that the problems of our current economy can be solved with green technologies while continuing to grow the economy. Our guest, Prof. Dr. Julia Steinberger, Professor of Ecological Economics at the University of Lausanne, talks about the differences between ecological and environmental economics, and more generally about the problems with dominant economics. We explore the problems with the idea that growth can be sustained if only technologies change, discuss issues of decoupling or the rebound effect, and ultimately the need to address the neoliberal strategies behind many current policies. Julia explains alternative economic perspectives such as degrowth and postgrowth, which are based on actual human needs and planetary boundaries. She talks about one of her key research projects, 'Living Well Within Limits', which demonstrates the viability of such a needs-based and well-being-centred perspective, and the implications for transformative pathways beyond green growth

For additional resources and a deeper exploration of Julia’s work and views, please visit:

https://www.unil.ch/gse/fr/home/menuinst/vie-facultaire/promotions--nominations/steinberger-julia.html

https://jksteinberger.medium.com/

Further reading:

• Steinberger, J., Guerin, G., Hofferberth, E., & Pirgmaier, E. (2024). Democratizing provisioning systems: A prerequisite for living well within limits. Sustainability: Science, Practice and Policy, 20(1), 2401186.
• Keen, S. (2011). Debunking Economics - The Naked Emperor Dethroned?
• Ayres, R. U., van den Bergh, J. C. J. M., Lindenberger, D., & Warr, B. (2013). The underestimated contribution of energy to economic growth. Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, 27, 79–88.

Beyond the Fix is brought to you by Critical Scientists Switzerland, an independent network of scientists. It is made possible by the Stiftung Mercator Schweiz and produced by Podcastschmiede. Host: Thomas Kobel. Music: Mich Gerber.

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