The study elaborates scenarios of possible evolution towards different forms of regenerative economy, using the Tree Horizon scenario framework. Additionally, each scenario is coupled with the different ecosystems’ stewardship perspectives:
- Horizon 1, eco-efficient market: limit environmental degradation by means of new eco-efficient technologies. Coupled with protecting and restoring socio-ecological systems.
- Horizon 2, circular economy: is presented as a possible pathway between Horizon 1 and Horizon 3. Coupled with co-shaping socio-ecological systems.
- Horizon 3, symbiotic economy: conversion of the current economy into a radically different symbiotic economy model. Coupled with immersing and caring within hybrid collectives.
The study also considers the concept of regenerative economy as the next stage of evolution of capitalism. This concept assumes that economic vigour is a product of human and societal vitality, rooted in ecological health and the inclusive development of human capabilities. Thus:
- Acts in ways that support the long-term health of the whole society.
- Sees economic and financial health as inseparable from human, societal and environmental health.
- Values richness and diversity, integrity and fairness.
- Responds to the full gamut of human needs, adapting to circumstances and constantly evolving to more efficient levels of organization.
The conventional neoliberal and Keynesian economics use GDP to measure economic health, this is, a tool that only measures goods and services produced nationally. In contrast, the case study defends regenerative economics, which seek the development of healthy human networks embedded in healthy societies and the biosphere as the goal.
Further information
Totti Könnölä, Carlo Sessa and Daniel Cassolà “Case Study 4: Accelerating transitions to regenerative economy”. In European Commission: Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, Klaus Kubeczko, Project Coordination, Michael Bernstein, Dana Wasserbacher, Beatrix Wepner, Philine Warnke, Totti Könnölä, Liviu Andreescu, Bianca Dragomir, Radu Cristian Gheorghiu, Carlo Sessa, Daniel Cassolà, Žilvinas Martinaitis – “S&T&I for 2050 Science, Technology and Innovation for Ecosystem Performance- Accelerating Sustainability Transitions. Publications Office of the European Union, 2023.
