In a world grappling with environmental challenges, the pursuit of a sustainable and flourishing existence requires a reevaluation of our lifestyles and the adoption of strategies like sufficiency and regeneration. This blog based on a whitepaper, born out of the Sufficiency-Impact-Lab project sponsored by the Swiss Federal Office for Spatial Development (ARE) in 2022-2023, explores the interplay between sufficiency, regeneration, and a thriving life.
Sufficiency as a Pillar of Robust Sustainability
Sufficiency, derived from the Latin “sufficere” meaning to suffice or be enough, embodies the principles of moderation and restraint in consumption. Contrary to the misconception of sufficiency as mere restriction, we emphasize its role in fostering well-being and a fulfilling life while highlighting the dimensions of meaning and time. Embracing sufficiency requires a profound transformation in our thinking, feeling, and actions across various levels—individual, organizational, and societal.
The societal core questions of sufficiency revolve around determining what is (good) enough, the type of prosperity needed for a fulfilling life, and the material consumption required for such a life. Sufficiency complements efficiency and consistency as a robust sustainability strategy, focusing on personal and societal changes to preserve natural resources for future generations.
Sufficiency isn’t about rejecting materialism but rather assigning value to objects through scarcity, fostering attention and individualization. Repairing a sweater, for instance, not only engages us deeply with the item but also allows for skill development. Sufficiency extends beyond natural and economic resources to encompass time, social status, prestige, power, and competition.
Efficiency aims to extract maximum value from resources, often through technological innovation, while consistency focuses on thinking in resource cycles to minimize waste. Sufficiency, however, addresses rebound effects and becomes indispensable in preventing the over-exploitation of our life foundations.
Regeneration – towards flourishing life
Regeneration introduces a new paradigm by emphasizing the renewal of depleted resources to enable life within planetary boundaries. It goes beyond sustainability, which traditionally leans towards an anthropocentric view, to embrace an ecocentric perspective, considering the integrity of entire ecosystems.
The concept of “good life” can be understood in various ways. Philosophically, we can explore different perspectives, such as Aristotle’s emphasis on reason and virtues, and Martha Nussbaum’s focus on central capabilities as the essence of a meaningful life. However, we find that these approaches fall short when considering the good life not only in terms of individual human existence but also in relation to the broader context—the environment, ecosystems, and the interconnectedness of all life forms.
In our perspective, we draw on both approaches but recognize their limitations when applied in isolation. Our understanding of the good life extends beyond the individual to encompass the well-being of the entire ecosystem in which we are embedded. This viewpoint aligns with a crucial element of the South American concept of “buen vivir” or the “good life.” Here, the goal is to unite several objectives: maintaining balance with nature, reducing social inequality, fostering a solidary economy, and establishing a pluralistic democracy with civil society participation.
This understanding introduces a shift from an anthropocentric worldview, where humans are at the center, to an ecocentric perspective. Nature is acknowledged to have intrinsic value, and humans are seen as part of a larger ecosystem where everything that exists forms a unity. This departure from anthropocentrism emphasizes a commitment to the well-being not just of humanity but of all existence.
The “good life” we envision involves active engagement. It calls for more than knowledge, thought, and discussion. Preserving our life foundations requires a conscious stance, and we must recognize that choosing not to act is also a form of action. Our actions, or lack thereof, have an impact on the world, creating a reciprocal relationship with ourselves.
What is “good” needs to be continuously asked and evaluated based on the effects of our actions on ourselves. It encourages self-efficacy, the ability to effect change, and a transformation that leads us to contribute positively to the world. This is described as a perpetual dance between resonance and relevance, a dynamic interplay of action and reaction that maintains a healthy balance, ultimately defining a successful and meaningful life.
Time is identified as a crucial dimension in this dance. Taking or having time allows us to connect and resonate with the world, contributing to a flourishing life. It acknowledges that a flourishing life can be both happy and meaningful, and that the assessment of such a life is subjective and closely tied to individual values.
A flourishing life transcends individualistic notions, embracing a holistic perspective that intertwines with the intricate web of life. It invites us to reevaluate our actions, make conscious choices, and actively participate in the collective endeavor of creating a world where the good life extends to all facets of existence.
Synthesis of Sufficiency, Regeneration, and Flourishing
The synthesis of sufficiency, regeneration, and flourishing is not only sensible but also essential for a sustainable and fulfilling future. By reducing complexity and embracing a dance of resonance and relevance, we can navigate the intricate balance between individual and collective well-being.
Recognizing that individuals operate within various systems, including private, professional, and civil society realms, we can make impactful changes at both the micro and macro levels. Crucial action areas for sufficiency include consumption habits related to food, mobility, housing, and luxury goods. Additionally, on the professional front, industries can play a pivotal role in reducing environmental footprints by reevaluating processes and fostering innovation.
In conclusion, sufficiency, regeneration, and flourishing are not disparate ideals but interconnected components crucial for a sustainable future. The adoption of these principles demands a radical shift in our thinking, feeling, and actions, inviting us to challenge established norms and actively contribute to the well-being of our planet and ourselves.
This serves as a starting point for a broader dialogue. We invite responses, discussions, and collective action towards creating a world where sufficiency, regeneration, and flourishing coalesce for the benefit of all living beings.
This blog is written based on Sägesser,A.& Förster, R.(2023).Suffizienz, Regeneration und gelingendes Leben.Whitepaper November 2023.Zürich. ChatGpt 3.5 has been used in the structuring and revision of this blog.