About Doughnut Economics, Technology and Humanitarian Crises

About Doughnut Economics, Technology and Humanitarian Crises

Written with Sarah A Jabbar; October 2021

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AI generated summary:

Sustainable development and humanitarian resilience are increasingly linked to the economic frameworks used to guide global and local recovery. This report examines the intersection of a regenerative economic model with technology and disaster management, moving beyond traditional growth metrics like Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to focus on human and planetary well-being. By balancing essential social needs—such as food, water, and housing—with the ecological limits of the Earth, the model provides a 21st-century compass for policymakers and humanitarian organizations to build thriving, resilient communities.

The practical application of this model involves a deep "cycle of co-creation" where cities and regions customize their approach through four lenses: social, local, ecological, and global. While technology is not the primary driver, it serves as an indispensable enabler by providing the open data and digital connectivity needed to monitor progress and visualize the global impact of local decisions. This localized ownership ensures that economic transformation is not forced but grows organically from the specific needs and mindsets of the community.

In the context of humanitarian crises and post-COVID-19 recovery, this framework shifts the focus from short-term emergency response to long-term resilience. It encourages a holistic understanding of how humanitarian actions, such as aid delivery and resource allocation, impact both the social foundation and the surrounding ecosystem. By prioritizing nature-based solutions and community-led initiatives, this approach offers a path toward recovery that respects planetary boundaries while ensuring no one falls short on life's essentials.