Abstract Summary
There is growing recognition that Circular economy (CE) programs are not delivering in terms of social and ecological justice. In response, degrowth scholars have drawn attention to community based practices of circularity built on values of sufficiency, democracy, care, and solidarity. This has resulted in a dichotomy in comparisons of pro-growth circular business strategies to citizens-led, justice oriented, circular practices. The limits of these categorizations (CEvsDEgrowth) lie in the fact that they may essentialise both the benefits of small-scale-voluntary practices, and the problems of large infrastructure and technologies. They may thus fail to take into account the scale and urgency of the current socio-ecological crisis and the wholescale systemic transformation that it requires at both micro and macro scales. This dualist vision falls short in understanding the innovative power of community care practices and the imperative to equitably manage large scale material resource flows and public services that meet essential needs. This workshop will unpack this debate and discuss with participants how we can build a holistic approach to socio-ecological transformation that goes beyond existing dichotomies in CE and degrowth. The workshop will be based on a world café methodology. After a short introduction , we will break out into groups that invite participants to engage with the core elements of the topic . Each table is hosted by a notetaker and after 15 minutes of discussion everyone but the hostswitch tables to allow different perspectives. After 3 rounds of debate, the hosts will present the core outcomes of the discussion. As a plenary, we will critically discuss the topic and how we may be able to holistically understand the topic in a systemic and comprehensive manner. The learning outcomes of the workshop will include a greater understanding of the key debates related to Degrowth and Circularity and their relationship to infrastructure, social innovation, and technology. We will unpack and question basic assumptions and develop practical ways to overcome dualist approaches to the topic. Ultimately, we hope this will help participants better address the scale and scope of the current socio-ecological crisis and build an approach to innovations, techniques and infrastructures that are up to our monumental challenges for the 21st century. Target audience: urban planners, decision makers, politicians, engineers, architects, activists, civil society organizations, NGOs, engaged citizens, researchers and students. We will invite practitioners and activists from our communities who are often absent from such debates. There is no prerequisite level of expertise to join and participate. Materials: 10 large sheets of paper. 15 markers. 5 tables for min. 5 people.
