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A Beautiful Story for a Collapsing World

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Published: Sep 15, 2025
Keywords:
commons green growth localisation cosmolocalism sustainability
Vasilis Kostakis
Harvard University
Abstract

Can humanity change course as quickly as needed to prevent ecological disaster and growing economic inequalities? This essay examines these challenges by questioning the effectiveness of dominant technological solutions. It analyzes the weaknesses of modern approaches, such as “green growth” and carbon offsetting. As an alternative, it proposes the approach of commons and peer production, presenting examples from various sectors such as agriculture, energy, and space technology. The vision and practices of the commons promote cooperation, global knowledge sharing, and local production, offering a more sustainable and equitable alternative to the dominant economic system.

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