DOUGHNUT ECONOMICS WORKSHOP

What is Doughnut Economics?

The Doughnut is a model for an economic system that strikes the right balance between providing resources for all, and ensuring resources are used sustainably. Between the Social Foundation and the Ecological Ceiling lies a safe and just space for humanity where sustainable lifestyles can be fostered.

Rather than solely focusing on Southampton’s GDP, focusing on citizens’ wellbeing and the climate impact of local businesses provides a more sustainable way for the city to grow.

SoCAN Workshop (1st March 2024)

With support from the Centre for the South, the Southampton Climate Action Network (SoCAN – a coalition of green businesses and organisations in Southampton) worked with Dr Matt Ryan and colleagues at the University of Southampton. Using research on Doughnut Economics and other models, a workshop was held bringing together cross-sector stakeholders to discuss the application of alternative economic practice in Southampton.

The SoCAN workshop brought together a group of speakers, including local authority members of Southampton, Cornwall, and Preston, to describe examples of using Community Wealth Building and Doughnut Economics in their local areas.

Speakers included:

• Cllr Sarah Bogle, Cabinet member for Economic Development at Southampton City Council

• Cllr Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council

• Leonora Grcheva, Cities and Regions Lead, Doughnut Economics Action Lab

• Jane Cox and Emma Williamson, Policy Officers, Cornwall Council and 

• Ross McNally, CEO, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce

Around 50 participants representing a multidisciplinary cross-section of the city’s professionals and practitioners were encouraged to consider how their organisations may be able to give more support to local businesses and use Doughnut Economics as a model to shape Southampton’s future.

Anchor institutions such as the universities, local authorities and large corporations can collaborate with and source more from local businesses to boost the local economy and reduce deprivation.

Centre for the South Values

Since early 2023, workshops co-delivered by the Centre for the South have shaped its strategic priorities to focus on six local challenges. An economy that prevents unsustainable practice and promotes a thriving local population by investing in Southampton’s business relates all of these priorities in different ways.

Resources

To find out more about Doughnut Economics and SoCAN, click on the images below.