Economics

Economics Conference - February 2012

An underlying question to much of today’s political agenda is "How can we get back to Economic Growth as soon as possible?", yet economic growth does not take into consideration finite natural resources, social justice and individual well-being. How can we escape the dependency of a system based on continuous economic growth? What alternatives are there? How can alternatives be implemented and given the priority they need in our crowded social and political agendas?

This "Ideas Day" will bring together prominent speakers and activists who have addressed these issues constructively from a sustainable point of view; as well as a range of individuals and groups who are developing and implementing practical alternatives. Our intention is that this day will stimulate thought and action amongst sustainability and green activists in and around Cambridge and the Eastern Region, leading to an intensification of appropriate economic, social and political change, locally, regionally and nationally.

Conference Report

The conference was a great success with some exciting ideas developed.

For further reading, see http://www.opendemocracy.net/ourkingdom/oliver-huitson/uneconomics-guide-to-money-creation

Here are the videos we were able to record:

Tony Juniper

Councillor Rupert Read

Stephen Lawrence

Professor Molly Scott

OUTLINE PROGRAMME

Morning - The Bigger Picture:

Speakers of regional and national repute from a range of organisations such as the Green Economics Institute, New Economics Foundation, the Transition movement and Green Party. The case for a different kind of economics, with examples of policies and initiatives which are needed and are being introduced.

There will be opportunities for questions, and a panel discussion with speakers at the end of the morning.

Afternoon - Local Alternatives and Initiatives:

Table displays and workshops with opportunities to browse and discuss - demonstrating a range of local initiatives e.g. Transition groups, Carbon Footprint, local money, rural initiatives etc. Discussions on how such initiatives can lead to more effective local economies and influence broader economic thinking and policy.

Final plenary session to identify key ideas from the day, and ways to move forward.