The doughnut model in municipal sustainability work – methods development and implementation in three small Swedish municipalities

It is becoming increasingly clear that traditional economic thinking is incapable of providing an energy and climate system that is sustainable for all.

Doughnut economics offers an alternative economic model, where an economy can be seen as prosperous only if it lives up to several basic social conditions (i.e., energy, health, equality), within the planetary boundaries.

Only few municipalities have used doughnut economics to increase their capacity to contribute to a more sustainable and just energy and climate system.

In this project, the municipalities of Kalix, Tomelilla and Vadstena will integrate doughnut economics in their energy and climate related work. And RISE will provide support and generalize the lessons learned into scientific publications and tools.

The project is expected to strengthen the capacity among those participating, as well as other municipalities and stakeholders, to pursue an energy and climate transition that is more equitable both locally and globally.