New economic models

Towards a future-proof economy, the Amsterdam Economic Board is exploring new economic models to redefine the conventional economic mindset focused on quantitative growth.

New economic models offer different perspectives on considering the economy as part of a society. Offering tools to make that economy more equitable and sustainable. Looking for a new economic balance, where ‘enough’ is good enough and ‘well-being’ takes precedence over a growing gross domestic product. Some examples include: Doughnut Economics, Post Growth and the Purpose Economy.

Please read our news articles about the New economic models initiative.

What are new economic models?

New economic models, founded on post-growth principles, are characterised by:

• Quality of life. Not only income, but also health, education and cultural access are a factor
• Ecological sustainability. Respecting the limits of our planet and natural resources
• Social justice. Aimed at reducing inequality and promoting a fair distribution of wealth

The Amsterdam Economic Board is exploring whether (and how) we can apply these approaches in practical initiatives.

What we are working on

The Amsterdam Economic Board is working with partners to explore new economic models in the tracks below:

1. Living Lab Project ‘New Economic Thinking, New Economic Acting’

In this living lab project, users and local residents, policy makers and innovative economy experts at the Marineterrein work together on socioeconomic and ecological experiments. We’re exploring what it’d mean when we’d shift the focus from quantitative to qualitative growth.

With our partner AMS Institute, we monitor expected and unexpected results. This is how we and the region will learn what it takes for a local economy to thrive if it acts within planetary boundaries. Now we are working on four socioeconomic experiments:

2. Learning journey ‘Thriving without growing’ (completed)

Together with entrepreneurs from the fashion and textile industry, we explored how to shift the focus from quantitative to qualitative growth, while respecting planetary boundaries, our environment and residents.

Want to know more about this learning journey? In the report ‘Bloeien zonder te groeien – Postgroei in textiel: van theorie naar praktijk’ (Dutch pdf) you’ll read all about how we are working with fashion and textile entrepreneurs, Amsterdam Transition Institute, de Groene Afslag and Hogeschool van Amsterdam to try to flesh out this new economic paradigm. The report contains advice for the national government to help shape the fashion and textile industry of tomorrow.