Regenerative Economics

In this course we examine ways to accelerate the transition towards an economy that, by design, regenerates the Earth's biosphere and its ability to provide the ecosystem services that sustain the economy itself—and all life. This course uses the circular economy framework as a departure point, delving into the interconnection between geo-biology and the economy. Although regenerative economics is still an emerging field, this course focuses on praxis rather than on theory, seeking to equip students with key concepts and tools to address real-world problems from a regenerative perspective and to create innovative, regenerative economy initiatives in a variety of sectors. To this effect, we illustrate the course topics with case studies and are joined by notable guest speakers who are leading practitioners in their domains. In this course, we visit different areas of regenerative opportunity that include regenerative agriculture and permaculture; agroforestry; ecosystem restoration and rewilding; bio-based materials and products (grown instead of made); seaweed and fungi-based businesses; and novel sources of food. In addition to the circular economics framework, we discuss the planetary boundary framework and look at several large-scale human-Earth models that integrate human activity and geo-biological cycles. Using a precautionary and critical lens, we also examine technologies that can help us measure, manage, or foster regeneration, both locally and at a planetary scale, such as Earth observation, the Internet-of-Things, artificial intelligence, blockchain, synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and geo-engineering.