Funding the ecological transition: financial, monetary and fiscal policy approaches
While the climate crisis is now an undeniable reality, the current political and economic
framework based on austerity measures and conventional market practices does not seem sufficient to address the urgent need for an ecological transition. While it is essential to address the question of how to fund this transition, mainstream approaches often fall short as they are constrained by outdated paradigms and an unwillingness to embrace the new and unknown.
This is surprising given the wealth of research and innovative solutions developed by academic institutions and organisations that suggest alternative ways to finance the ecological transition.
However, these solutions often struggle to gain recognition as they challenge the status quo and require a rethink of deeply ingrained systems. Yet it is precisely this openness to bold, unconventional ideas that is needed in a time of global emergency to ensure a sustainable and liveable future for all.
Many institutions, organisations and economists are already pushing these boundaries and developing progressive ideas for funding the transition. The real challenge now is to connect these efforts, encourage collaboration and increase the impact of these initiatives. In this context, students and young scientists have a crucial role to play. As the next generation of economists and thinkers, they form a bridge between the academic world and the organisations working on the ground. Their fresh perspectives and energy are crucial in bringing new ideas forward and turning them into action.
The “Rethinking Economics” conference aims to create a space for this. With the theme “How to Fund the Ecological Transition?”, the first edition of this conference will address one of the most pressing issues of our time. Taking place in Geneva - an international centre for politics, economics and sustainability - the conference aims to bring together students, academics, institutions and organisations to share approaches on how to fund such a transition.