As part of our series exploring alternative economic models, this is the second edition looking at Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Economics. This framework seeks a thriving economy with equality and a minimum standard of living for all, while not taking more from the planet than it can afford to give.

Read Doughnut Economics: Bold Blueprint for a Sustainable Future – Part One here.

Doughnut Economics in Practice 

In 2020, the city of Amsterdam, Netherlands, looked to the Doughnut Economics model to rebuild post-Covid. It became the first city to officially adopt Doughnut Economics, aiming to balance social well-being with environmental sustainability. The city’s strategy, developed with Kate Raworth, focused on creating a circular economy where resources are reused, recycled, and reduced. 

 A doughnut cooked up in Oxford will guide Amsterdam out of the economic mess left by the coronavirus pandemic.”

Daniel Boffey, The Guardian 

Efforts include promoting energy efficiency and reducing emissions in construction and transport. This approach integrates the Doughnut model into decision-making across various sectors, aiming to meet citizens’ needs while staying within planetary boundaries. 

One key initiative is the Strandeiland housing project, which emphasises sustainable building practices and quality of life. Materials are transported using low-emission fuels and designs incorporate eco-friendly technologies.  

The doughnut does not bring us the answers but a way of looking at it, so that we don’t keep on going on in the same structures as we used to.” 

Marieke van Doorninck, former deputy mayor of Amsterdam speaking in 2020 

Amsterdam continues to adopt the Doughnut Economics framing when designing policy. From 1 January 2025, the local council will require all personal recreational boats to use electric or hybrid motors to improve air and water quality in the city. Challenges persist, but Amsterdam’s implementation has inspired other cities to explore similar models, including Copenhagen and Barcelona. 

General Critiques 

One key critique is the limited real-world application of Doughnut Economics. It offers an appealing vision but lacks a clear strategy for transitioning from current systems. While cities like Amsterdam have adopted elements, widespread national implementation remains uncertain. 

Another criticism is that the model oversimplifies the complexities of global economic systems. Balancing ecological sustainability with social well-being is difficult, as these goals often conflict. Policies aimed at improving welfare may increase resource use, worsening environmental issues. 

Some argue that the framework doesn’t adequately address political realities. We require significant structural changes, but many governments remain committed to growth-focused policies. Without political will and global governance, widespread adoption may be difficult. 

Lastly, there are concerns about its impact on lower-income countries. Limiting economic growth to respect planetary boundaries could hinder development and poverty reduction efforts. 

Conclusion 

While there may be some legitimate questions around the practicality of Kate Raworth’s model, it is clear that something has to change. Raworth’s model offers the vision of a better future for people and planet, but it is not a prescriptive step-by-step guide to arrive there.  

Amsterdam shows us that a place can thrive while approaching growth through the prism of Doughnut Economics. The great challenge is getting our leaders to consider alternative approaches when the growth mantra is so embedded. This would require transnational cooperation towards a shared vision.  

Doughnut Economics may not be the silver bullet, but it does offer the framework for a more positive and sustainable future.      

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This is part two of Doughnut Economics: Bold Blueprint for a Sustainable Future.

Part one is available here.