Interlocking crises

The report identifies interconnected crises of climate instability, biodiversity loss, and social inequality. Global temperatures have risen by 1.2–1.3°C since the pre-industrial era, with overshoot of 1.5°C expected by 2035. Wildlife populations declined by 69% between 1970 and 2018, and inequality has increased in high-income countries. Six of nine planetary boundaries are breached, highlighting ecological instability. The paper argues that the “bad GDP growth” paradigm—focused on continuous consumption—has failed to resolve these challenges, and proposes Regenerative Good Growth (RGG) as an alternative framework that supports equitable, nature-positive transitions.

Failed by the bad GDP growth paradigm

Gross Domestic Product remains the dominant economic measure, but it externalises environmental and social costs. Negative externalities, such as environmental degradation, amount to 10% of the global economy (USD 8 trillion annually). Happiness levels plateau despite rising GDP, and carbon emissions increase with wealth. The report identifies five flaws of GDP-based growth: it ignores external harms, breaches planetary boundaries, assumes infinite consumption, overlooks relational values, and neglects inequality. Calls from thousands of researchers urge replacing GDP with measures of well-being and ecosystem health.

Principles of regenerative good growth

RGG proposes that economies regenerate rather than deplete resources, aiming to restore stability within ecological limits. It builds on five renewable capitals: natural, social, human, cultural, and sustainable physical. Regenerative systems promote circular flows of resources and self-renewal. Unlike traditional growth models, RGG reduces externalities while maintaining well-being. The approach complements existing frameworks such as circular and well-being economies, but stresses the need for speed and inclusivity in climate action. It warns that overly rapid or coercive transitions risk backlash and “green authoritarianism”.

Transitions will need favourable public and policy engagement

Public engagement is presented as critical for just and effective transitions. Surveys in several countries show 60–75% of people now accept human-induced climate change. The authors propose a “20-60-20” heuristic: 20% of citizens are highly active on climate issues, 60% are persuadable, and 20% are resistant. Policymakers are urged to focus on the middle group through co-production and inclusive policy design. Engagement should emphasise choice rather than compulsion to avoid resistance, as seen in protests against imposed climate measures in parts of Europe.

Fast transitions and positive tipping points are already underway

Technological adoption demonstrates accelerating change. Since 2015, solar capacity has grown 400% to 1 TW, battery electric vehicle sales by 1000% to 25 million, heat pump installations by 225%, and stationary battery capacity by 2500%. Countries with supportive policies gain the most. Examples of past rapid transitions, such as renewable energy and smoking bans, show that public welfare benefits drive acceptance.

Evidence for regenerative good growth: Jobs, agriculture, energy and cities

RGG can create economic and social value while reducing environmental costs. The World Economic Forum estimates that net zero transitions could add USD 10 trillion to the global economy and 395 million jobs by 2030. Circular economies already generate USD 1 trillion in annual benefits. In agriculture, hidden costs from negative externalities reach USD 13 trillion yearly—equivalent to 10% of global GDP—while regenerative systems enhance productivity and carbon sequestration. Renewable energy now supplies over 95% of domestic electricity in 14 countries, and cities such as Copenhagen and Singapore demonstrate regenerative design through low-carbon infrastructure and urban greening.

How stories help secure multiple choices

Storytelling is identified as a tool to mobilise hope and collective action. The report suggests narratives that emphasise co-operation and well-being over fear, using humour and inclusivity to maintain engagement. Story-based communication can inspire the “climate majority” to support transitions.

Agency and engagement: Whole system transitions

RGG aims to replace extractive growth with regenerative investment that benefits people and nature. The authors propose ten policy actions, including: eliminating fossil fuel and harmful subsidies (currently USD 7 trillion annually), electrifying economies, supporting regenerative agriculture, and embedding hope-driven narratives in policymaking. Initiatives such as the UK’s Climate Action Commissions and the US Inflation Reduction Act illustrate scalable, multi-sector approaches. The report concludes that regeneration must operate within planetary boundaries, ensuring fair resource distribution and fostering co-learning to achieve sustainable, nature-positive economies.