Doughnut Economics: Transforming Tomelilla's Approach to Sustainability

July 29, 2025
Doughnut Economics: Transforming Tomelilla's Approach to Sustainability

In a groundbreaking initiative, the small Swedish town of Tomelilla is embracing doughnut economics as a framework for sustainable development. This innovative approach, inspired by British economist Kate Raworth, aims to balance environmental limits with social foundations by creating a 'safe and just space for humanity'. The initiative began in 2021 when Stefan Persson, the town's organizational development manager, introduced the concept at a local council meeting. Persson noted, "I just mentioned it casually at a meeting, as a tool to evaluate our new quality of life programme, and it grew from there."

Doughnut economics outlines two concentric rings: the outer ecological ceiling represents planetary boundaries, while the inner social foundation encompasses essential life needs. The area between these rings symbolizes the sustainable space where communities can thrive without exceeding environmental limits (Raworth, 2017).

Incorporating this model into their decision-making processes, Tomelilla's local government has already begun integrating doughnut economics into various projects. For instance, rather than constructing a new ice rink, plans have shifted to renovate an existing building to align with sustainability goals. According to the latest annual report from Tomelilla Municipality, improvements have been noted in areas such as air quality and social equality, although challenges remain in reducing carbon emissions and addressing biodiversity concerns.

A significant project under this initiative is the proposal for a new school, the first major development since the 1990s. The council aims to utilize environmentally friendly materials and innovative designs, including a greenhouse for educational purposes. Per-Martin Svensson, a council member and local farmer, remarked, "Doughnut economics is like running a farm. Using an excess of resources, like nutrients, on your crops is a mistake. Not using enough is a mistake too.”

Despite the ambitious goals, the path to implementation includes numerous trade-offs. Persson acknowledges the complexity of resource management for large projects while emphasizing a broader vision for social change. He stated, “If we’re going to build anything, it should be democratic meeting places and schools.”

Furthermore, local schools are adopting a philosophical approach to education, questioning the purpose and structure of schooling in alignment with the doughnut economics framework. Leonora Grcheva, from the Doughnut Economics Action Lab, highlighted Tomelilla's position as a pioneering town in this global movement, stating, “It is one of the more committed, innovative and ambitious places to find different opportunities to bring these ideas into its work.”

As Tomelilla continues to navigate the challenges of implementing doughnut economics, it stands as a model for other towns. Cities like Barcelona and Mexico City are also applying Raworth's theories, creating a network of local governments striving for sustainable futures. Tomelilla's residents express pride and enthusiasm in their role in this transformative journey. Jonna Olsson, a council staff member, encapsulated this sentiment: "Doughnut economics is a really interesting way to work with sustainability. It feels cool to be a cog in international change."

As the town progresses towards its sustainability goals, the future of Tomelilla will be closely watched as a potential blueprint for other communities worldwide. With the growing focus on ecological and social sustainability, the principles of doughnut economics may increasingly inform local governance and community planning across the globe.

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Doughnut EconomicsTomelillaSustainabilityKate RaworthSwedenEcological LimitsSocial FoundationUrban DevelopmentClimate ChangeEnvironmental PolicyLocal GovernanceCommunity PlanningCircular EconomySustainable DevelopmentPublic TransportEducationBiodiversityCarbon EmissionsSocial EqualityEnvironmental InnovationGreen BuildingRenewable EnergyMunicipal PlanningClimate ProgrammeOrganizational DevelopmentSystems ThinkingSkåne RegionInternational CooperationRegenerative EconomyFuture-Proofing

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