Gaya Herrington, an acclaimed sustainability researcher and wellbeing economist, discusses the urgent need for a shift from traditional growth models to one prioritizing human and ecological wellbeing. She explores how the obsession with perpetual growth is intertwined with fossil fuel dependency and critiques the narrow view of sustainability. Gaya also emphasizes the importance of redefining success beyond GDP, advocating for a well-being economy that connects emotional richness with societal contributions, while cautioning against the environmental consequences of unchecked growth.
True sustainability requires a fundamental transformation of the economic system to prioritize human and ecological wellbeing instead of perpetual growth.
The reliance on fossil fuels is deeply interconnected with conventional economic growth, exacerbating environmental degradation and necessitating a reevaluation of priorities.
Redefining success from wealth accumulation to holistic well-being can foster a culture that emphasizes emotional fulfillment, community health, and sustainability.
Deep dives
The Need for Systemic Change in Economics
Achieving true sustainability requires transforming the current economic system, which is heavily centered on the pursuit of perpetual growth. The discussion emphasizes that merely focusing on technological solutions or reducing environmental damage is insufficient; a fundamental redesign of our economic goals is necessary. Current measures of success, such as GDP, do not accurately reflect human well-being or ecological health. Transitioning to a model that prioritizes human needs within planetary boundaries is essential for fostering a sustainable future.
The Urgency of Addressing Ecological Collapse
Human societies are nearing a critical point, as current trajectories align with predictions made decades ago regarding potential societal collapse due to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Outdated models suggest that welfare measures may peak in the near term before sharply declining, urging that immediate action is required to avert disaster. This situation represents a 'now or never' moment where the decisions made in the coming years will significantly influence the well-being of future generations. Failing to act soon could result in irreversible damage that threatens both human and ecological systems.
The Interconnection of Growth and Fossil Fuels
The reliance on fossil fuels is deeply intertwined with the historical model of economic growth, often leading to increased carbon emissions and other forms of environmental degradation. The discussion highlights how an obsession with growth spurs industries that exploit natural resources without sufficient consideration for ecological limits. While technological advancements are touted for their potential to mitigate these effects, the reality is that they often serve only to support existing growth paradigms rather than leading to substantial improvements. As current emissions remain at an all-time high, a genuine reevaluation of priorities is crucial for transitioning towards sustainability.
Redefining Success and Well-Being
Success should be redefined from the traditional metrics of wealth accumulation to a more holistic understanding of well-being that emphasizes emotional and spiritual fulfillment. The discussion acknowledges that societal pressures often push individuals to continuously chase external validation and material possessions, which can lead to dissatisfaction and mental anguish. Encouraging a culture that values self-acceptance, community well-being, and connection to nature can bring about transformative change. Ultimately, prioritizing happiness and community over relentless productivity fosters a healthier population and contributes to sustainability.
Collective Action towards a Better Future
The conversation underscores the importance of social tipping points, suggesting that real systemic change can occur once a critical mass of the population embraces new narratives about sustainability and well-being. Individuals can influence these changes by fostering discussions within their communities, leveraging personal experiences to advocate for a well-being economy. It is posited that even though society may feel dominated by growth-centric ideals, a dedicated minority can catalyze meaningful change. By focusing on shared values and supporting one another, society can transition from mere survival to thriving collectively in a sustainable manner.
Gaya Herrington is an internationally known sustainability researcher and wellbeing economist, living in Washington D.C. A regular guest lecturer and keynote and TED speaker, Gaya has been shaping conversations at local and global levels with her message that true sustainability will not be achieved without transforming our economic system away from an obsession with perpetual growth to one that centers around human and ecological wellbeing.
Chapters
(00:00:00) Origins of limits to growth
(00:03:23) Different models in the limits to growth
(00:07:04) Connection between business growth and fossil fuels
(00:08:17) Conflating climate change with overall sustainability
(00:10:20) What is sustainability? Why do people view it so narrowly?
(00:13:05) Mainstream economic models, power dynamics, and systemic issues
(00:14:50) We design the economy
(00:17:17) What happens during the predicted decline?
(00:19:46) Centering around wellbeing over growth
(00:23:02) Humans are not meant to be 10/10, Qualitative measurements
(00:24:00) Needs vs wants
(00:26:33) Becoming spiritually rich
(00:29:00) Pick your stakeholders & investors wisely
(00:31:18) Annual sustainability reports & emissions going up
(00:36:32) The role of technology in the shift
(00:39:20) Techno-intentionalist
(00:40:06) Planned degrowth, recessions, and collective trauma around money
(00:45:39) Systems change and redesigning the economy
(00:47:50) Altruism, feeling powerless, and social tipping points
(00:51:41) Start with yourself and capitalism
(00:59:50) Lightning Round ⚡️⚡️⚡️
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