John Lennon, Imagine (seen in a store window)
Much of this year, we’ve been getting to know the place where we live, seeing it as it is, and appreciating and understanding its uniqueness. Still, there will always be things that could be better and, for the past few weeks, we’ve been imagining how to see and bring about needed change.
A few weeks ago, we looked at the economy of our places - the businesses and jobs that provide employment, how these jobs are tied to the resources of your area (or not), and also the way resources are shared in non-monetary ways. This week, let’s look at the big picture and imagine how your place, its people, and all species can best thrive, through a very interesting economic lens.
Doughnut Economics
Economist Kate Raworth recognized that most economies depend on linear growth, yet we live on a finite planet. She wondered what an economy might look like if we were able to identify the space we need to occupy in order for life to continue and thrive and then live within that space. The image of a doughnut (see below) came to mind, where the goal is to live in the “hole” of the doughnut, which comprises all of the social needs of a community. The outer rim is the ecological ceiling, beyond which a community is unsustainable. Most places have moved beyond the rim of the doughnut in certain ways.
If this sounds like something you’d like to learn more about, I highly recommend reading Raworth’s book or listening to her TED Talk. For our purposes this week, we’ll imagine what a thriving place looks like for you.
I listened to a podcast episode (From What If to What Next), where Rob Hopkins interviews Kate Raworth, along with Marieke van Doorninck, the Alderman for Sustainability and Urban Development for the City of Amsterdam, which has been named the first Doughnut City. The overarching question for the Amsterdam group was, “How can a city be home to a thriving people in a thriving place while respecting all and the health of the planet?” The podcast begins with both women imagining what Amsterdam will be like in 2030, once new economic policies have been in place for several years.
Here’s what I imagine for my place.
The already walkable streets are filled with more walkers, bicyclists, as well as electric public transportation and very few cars. The edges of the streets, between the sidewalk and the road are planted with native trees and flowers, creating pollinator pathways that connect to forested wildlife corridors.
The lake, the escarpment, and the soil are celebrated as our most precious resources and every endeavor (for profit or not) has, at its core, a responsibility to protect these resources.
The shopping area is predominantly made up of places that provide healthy local food, services, repair and second hand shops, and local art. And, speaking of art, the streets are filled with music and public art related to the history and cultural aspects of the town.
Housing is diverse and affordable, from co-housing projects to rental properties on existing land. All homes have solar panels instead of shingles and they contribute to the local, hydroelectric grid.
The population is also diverse, with people of all ages and ethnic ancestry. They look out for one another in neighbourhood groups. The animal population has increased in diversity as well, and we share the space with them in a respectful way. Birdsong fills the air, since vehicles are fewer and quieter, and gas powered equipment has been banned or at least has restricted hours of use.
New jobs related to renewable energy and waste recycling have proliferated and they pay a living wage. Essential workers, especially those in healthcare and the retail sector, are recognized and paid according to their importance. Speaking of healthcare, there is more of an emphasis on preventative care, and mental health support. There is less disease because the air is cleaner, we’re exercising more, and eating healthy foods.
Our values have shifted from consumption, always wanting more, to experiencing life and being a contributor to the community. We spend less time shopping (there are no more malls) and more time gathering with friends, connecting to nature, learning new skills, being active, etc. We repair or reuse what we have, and give away what we no longer need through the local buy nothing group.
Practice
What makes you personally thrive?
If you can, listen to at least the beginning of the podcast to hear Kate and Marieke imagine Amsterdam. Then, using the doughnut as a guide, imagine your place as thriving in 2030. Write it down or record it on a voice note. What strikes you most about your response? And, I’d love for you to share your response in the comments or on Instagram if you’d like (add the hashtag #seeingyourplace2022).
Resources