Beyond the growth paradigm: Degrowth for a sustainable future

As the climate crisis escalates, the urgency for comprehensive mitigation strategies has become paramount. This chapter argues for the integration of degrowth-oriented policies alongside a transition to renewable energy and the phasing out of fossil fuels. Current socio-economic paradigms, driven by vested interests, obstruct necessary systemic change, perpetuating unsustainable growth patterns that exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions. Although public support for climate action is high, government responses remain insufficient, highlighting a disconnect between citizen concerns and political action. Moreover, reliance on techno-fixes like carbon capture and solar geoengineering proves risky and inadequate. Instead, degrowth - defined as the equitable downscaling of production and consumption in affluent nations - offers a viable path to align economic practices with ecological sustainability. By prioritizing well-being over growth, degrowth can significantly lower emissions, enhance the effectiveness of renewable energy, and foster social equity. As we face a critical moment in history, embracing degrowth is not merely an option; it is essential for achieving climate targets and ensuring a sustainable future for all.