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Economics for a Safe Operating Space: A Green-Growth-Degrowth Model

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  • Gries, Thomas

    (University of Paderborn)

  • Naudé, Wim

    (RWTH Aachen University)

Abstract

We present a model of economic growth that bridges Green Growth and Degrowth perspectives. The model demonstrates that a minimum physical per capita consumption level can be maintained without recourse to tech-optimism, and moreover with degrowth in material resource throughput - respecting planetary boundaries. We critically discuss the assumptions necessary for this result, explore relaxing these, and illustrate that eventually a full transition to renewable energy and materials will be needed to sustain consumption levels in a post-growth economy. We identify areas for future growth modelling, emphasising that these require genuine interdisciplinary cooperation.

Suggested Citation

  • Gries, Thomas & Naudé, Wim, 2025. "Economics for a Safe Operating Space: A Green-Growth-Degrowth Model," IZA Discussion Papers 18110, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18110
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • O44 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Environment and Growth
    • Q32 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation - - - Exhaustible Resources and Economic Development
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth
    • Q55 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Technological Innovation

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