Sustainability researchers endorse post-growth policy instruments for the European Union

This study surveyed 1,734 sustainability policy researchers from 97 countries on the potential, feasibility, and dependence on economic growth of 88 policy instruments from post-growth literature for implementation in the European Union. Fifty instruments across eleven themes were endorsed by a majority of respondents as ones that should be part of an EU sustainability policy mix aiming for reduced ecological footprints, securing well-being, and increasing equity. Nine policy instruments stood out for their high perceived potential, feasibility, and independence from economic growth: phasing out fossil fuel subsidies, greening credit regulations, North-South technology transfer, carbon consumption taxes, long-term warranties, repair infrastructure, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, ecological education, and environmental justice-focused education. Perceptions of higher policy potential were closely associated with greater perceived feasibility and a degrowth orientation in respondents’ own work. The findings suggest that many post-growth policies are viewed as realistic and legitimate options for the EU.