The world as we know it needs a new economics. Climate change, financial crisis and out-of-control globalization–all the major problems facing the world have their root in the dominant economic system.

Green economics offers an alternative to mainstream economics, which views society and the ecosystem as subsets of the wider, limitless global economy. Starting with the recognition of planetary limits and an understanding of the importance of using resources wisely, green economics views the economy as nested within society, which itself as part of the greater ecosystem.

This highly readable introduction explains the axioms of green economics including views on taxation, welfare, money, economic development and work through the work of its inspirational figures including Schumacher, Robertson and Douthwaite. It also explores the contributions and insights of schools of thought critical of the dominant neo-classical economic paradigm, including ecofeminism, views from the global South, and the perspective of indigenous peoples. Examples of effective green policies that are already being implemented across the world are presented, as well as policy prescriptions for issues including economic measurement, localization, citizens’ income, taxation and trade.

Table of Contents:

List of Photographs, Figures, Tables and Boxes; Acknowledgements; Preface; 1) Green Economics: Economics for People and the Planet; PART I: THEORY 2) Where Did it all Start? 3) Economics and Identity; PART II: VISION FOR THE FUTURE 4) Work; 5) Money; 6) Green Business: From Maximizing Profits to a Vision of Conviviality; PART III: POLICIES FOR A GREEN ECONOMY 7) The Policy Context; 8) Globalization and Trade; 9) Relocalizing Economic Relationships; 10) Green Taxation; 11) Green Welfare; 12) Land and the Built Environment; 13) Summary and Further Resources; Index.