RESEARCH A NEW ECONOMY

A new economy
A new economy is developing and DOEN supports initiatives that have the nerve to take a leading role in shaping that new economy. An economy where there is more space for social and sustainable entrepreneurs, for activities whose primary aim is to deliver a positive contribution to man and the environment.

The main shift compared with the current economy is that more, and different, players are entering the game. Society and the natural environment are becoming partners in the market. Organisations’ responsibilities are changing as a result: making a profit or adding value are moving aside to create room for new ecological and social objectives. What an organisation creates and contributes to the world is becoming more important. The economic dynamic is changing too, with sharing and giving playing a role in addition to trading. And finally, impact and effect are measured not only in quantitative but also in qualitative terms.

All in all, this means that organisations need different skills in order to succeed. A solid anchor of their own, a moral compass, is required to help navigate a course between the various players. Resilience and sensitivity to the environment are vital to be able to discern and respond promptly to changes in surroundings. Lastly, the ability to see the big picture is vital in order to identify the effect and impact on the environment and to respond accordingly.

Research
DOEN supports Creating Change by Godelieve Spaas* in her research into ‘the new economy’, active research focusing on the experiments that work, the dilemmas that arise at the interface between current and alternative economies, the factors needed to function successfully in the new economy and the changing field of play on which businesses operate.

This research contributes to the development of the projects studied by raising awareness and identifying the processes evolving in the organisations concerned. In addition, the results lead to cross-pollination between the different cases. For example, one person may have found a solution to a problem that someone else is still struggling with.
Finally, the research yields specific approaches that not only DOEN but many other organisations as well can draw on as a source of inspiration in contributing to a new economy.

Read more in the preliminary study and the blogs written by Godelieve Spaas about her research.

*Godelieve Spaas is a consultant, researcher and writer in the field of organizational development, combining economic, ecological and social development.