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Oxfam Discussion Papers
A safe and just space for humanity
CAN WE LIVE WITHIN THE DOUGHNUT?
Kate Raworth
Oxfam
Humanity’s challenge in the 21st century is to eradicate poverty and achieve prosperity for all within the means of the planet’s limited natural resources. In the run-up to Rio+20, this discussion paper presents a visual framework – shaped like a doughnut – which brings planetary boundaries together with social boundaries, creating a safe and just space between the two, in which humanity can thrive. Moving into this space demands far greater equity – within and between countries – in the use of natural resources, and far greater efficiency in transforming those resources to meet human needs.
Oxfam Discussion Papers
Oxfam Discussion Papers are written to contribute to public debate and to invite feedback on development and humanitarian policy issues. They are ’work in progress’ documents, and do not necessarily constitute final publications or reflect Oxfam policy positions. The views and recommendations expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Oxfam.
www.oxfam.org/grow
CONTENTS
Author’s note ....................................................................................................... 3
Executive summary ............................................................................................ 4
1 In search of a 21st century compass ............................................................. 6
2 A safe and just space for humanity............................................................... 7
3 A social foundation: human rights ................................................................. 9
4 An environmental ceiling: planetary boundaries ........................................ 12
5 Between the boundaries................................................................................ 15
6 Distribution dynamics
A safe and just space for humanity
CAN WE LIVE WITHIN THE DOUGHNUT?
Kate Raworth
Oxfam
Humanity’s challenge in the 21st century is to eradicate poverty and achieve prosperity for all within the means of the planet’s limited natural resources. In the run-up to Rio+20, this discussion paper presents a visual framework – shaped like a doughnut – which brings planetary boundaries together with social boundaries, creating a safe and just space between the two, in which humanity can thrive. Moving into this space demands far greater equity – within and between countries – in the use of natural resources, and far greater efficiency in transforming those resources to meet human needs.
Oxfam Discussion Papers
Oxfam Discussion Papers are written to contribute to public debate and to invite feedback on development and humanitarian policy issues. They are ’work in progress’ documents, and do not necessarily constitute final publications or reflect Oxfam policy positions. The views and recommendations expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Oxfam.
www.oxfam.org/grow
CONTENTS
Author’s note ....................................................................................................... 3
Executive summary ............................................................................................ 4
1 In search of a 21st century compass ............................................................. 6
2 A safe and just space for humanity............................................................... 7
3 A social foundation: human rights ................................................................. 9
4 An environmental ceiling: planetary boundaries ........................................ 12
5 Between the boundaries................................................................................ 15
6 Distribution dynamics