Doughnut Economics by Kate Raworth Summary

Doughnut Economics presents a groundbreaking economic framework that balances human needs with planetary boundaries. The model visualizes a "safe zone" shaped like a doughnut, where the inner ring represents 12 social foundations (e.g., food, education, equity) and the outer ring outlines 9 ecological limits (e.g., climate change, biodiversity loss). The goal is to thrive within this space, moving beyond GDP growth.

This book is essential for policymakers, economists, sustainability professionals, and activists seeking alternatives to traditional growth-focused models. It also appeals to educators, students, and anyone interested in redefining prosperity through equitable resource distribution and ecological stewardship.

Yes—it’s a visionary yet practical guide for 21st-century challenges. Raworth’s accessible writing, real-world examples (like Amsterdam’s post-Covid recovery plans), and critiques of outdated economic theories make it a vital resource for reshaping global and local economies.

Raworth’s principles include:

• Change the goal from GDP growth to thriving within the doughnut.
• Design to distribute wealth and opportunities equitably.
• Nurture human nature as cooperative, not purely self-interested.

These ideas challenge conventional economics by prioritizing social and ecological balance.

The outer ring of the doughnut represents nine planetary limits, including climate change, ocean acidification, and freshwater use. Exceeding these risks ecological collapse, while staying within them ensures Earth’s systems remain stable.

Critics argue the model lacks granular implementation strategies and may oversimplify complex systems. Others note its reliance on existing frameworks like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. However, supporters praise its holistic vision and adaptability.

Unlike Keynesian or neoliberal models focused on infinite growth, Raworth’s framework prioritizes regenerative systems and equitable resource distribution. It rejects GDP as a success metric, emphasizing social and ecological well-being instead.

Amsterdam adopted the framework in 2020 to guide sustainable urban policies, focusing on circular economies and social equity. Similar initiatives exist in Brussels, Costa Rica, and among NGOs aiming to align local actions with global boundaries.

“Humanity’s 21st-century challenge is to meet the needs of all within the means of the planet.” This encapsulates Raworth’s call to harmonize social justice with ecological resilience.

Yes—by advocating for policy changes, supporting circular economies, and reducing personal ecological footprints. The model also inspires community projects, such as local energy cooperatives or zero-waste initiatives.

Raworth argues growth should not be an end in itself. Instead, economies must become regenerative (renewing resources) and distributive (sharing benefits fairly) to avoid overshooting planetary boundaries.

With climate crises intensifying and inequality rising, the book’s framework offers actionable strategies for governments and organizations to achieve net-zero goals while ensuring social equity, making it a critical tool for contemporary challenges.