Slow Throughput

 

 

For nearly a decade, my journey has been deeply entwined with the local circular economy movement. It’s been a profound, often inspiring path. Yet, amidst the fervent discussions, a quiet, unsettling truth gradually dawned on me: nobody is talking about economics when talking about the circular economy. A glaring oversight, a vital missing piece that left a persistent hum of incompleteness in the grand plans for a sustainable future.

This realization ignited a personal quest. I embarked on a deep dive into the often-overlooked currents of economic thought, unearthing brilliant minds like Henry George, Arthur Pigou, Frederick Soddy, Kenneth Boulding, and Herman Daly. Their insights were nothing short of revelatory, offering clear blueprints for a more harmonious world. The perplexing truth was not a lack of solutions, but that these visionary economists, whose wisdom holds such immense promise, were simply not taken seriously.

This pivotal understanding propelled me further, leading to an intricate exploration of the true complexities involved in achieving genuine sustainability. It became clear that creating and maintaining a regenerative economy demands more than superficial adjustments; it requires a fundamental recalibration, a delicate balance of intertwined elements.

And it was in this profound exploration that the concept of Slow Throughput resonated with me, a powerful echo from the work of Kenneth Boulding. He articulated how our prevailing economic growth is deeply tied to a relentless “quick throughput” – a breakneck pace from resource extraction, through hurried manufacturing and fleeting consumption, to an inevitable, too-soon disposal. It is from this acute diagnosis of our unsustainable speed that the transformative idea of ‘slow throughput’ was born.

Imagine an economy with a different rhythm, a more thoughtful cadence. A system where resources are deeply valued, products are designed for longevity, consumption is a conscious act, and waste is virtually eliminated, instead reintegrated into a virtuous, living cycle. This is the heart of Slow Throughput – not just an idea, but a viable, prosperous alternative. It is about designing a life and an economy that truly thrives, a compelling vision that challenges the very current of our modern world.

I am currently engaged in teaching these concepts, sharing insights into what a slow throughput economy might look like. And as these threads of understanding weave together, I am actively compiling a book on this essential subject, with an anticipated completion by 2026. Following its publication, a comprehensive eLearning module will be developed, further democratizing this vital knowledge.

The path to a truly regenerative world isn’t just a dream; it’s a meticulously crafted economic reality, waiting to be unleashed. Ready to discover how slowing down can actually propel us forward, unlocking prosperity beyond what our current system can imagine? My book will detail the economic framework for a regenerative future, offering practical insights and a compelling vision.

Don’t just adapt to change – drive it. Be part of the movement that’s finally connecting the economic dots to our sustainable future. Sign up for free excerpts to get a sneak peek into this vital work, or consider supporting me as I compose the book and eLearning, gaining early access to the blueprints for a thriving, slow throughput economy. Your contribution means accelerating the release of this essential knowledge, allowing you to be among the first to access the strategies that will redefine prosperity.