Students lead the way towards sustainability.

The cooperation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), municipalities, and schools is pivotal in implementing doughnut economics in small towns. This collaborative approach harnesses the strengths and resources of diverse stakeholders, creating a robust framework for sustainable development. NGOs bring expertise and innovative strategies in social and environmental advocacy; municipalities provide essential support and infrastructure; and schools contribute by educating and mobilising the next generation. Together, they can effectively address local challenges, promote community well-being, and ensure that economic activities are conducted within ecological limits. This partnership lays the groundwork for a holistic and resilient community model, embodying the principles of doughnut economics. And this is what we achieved together in a small town in Slovakia. 

Implementing Doughnut Economics in small towns can be effectively achieved through the creation of community herbal gardens. Students used Doughnut Economics to build herb gardens in schools by integrating sustainability into their educational environment. They started by identifying unused spaces on school grounds and transforming them into thriving gardens with diverse medicinal and culinary herbs. Hopefully, this initiative reduces the school's ecological footprint and provides hands-on learning opportunities. By managing these gardens, students developed skills in teamwork, responsibility, and resourcefulness. The herb gardens also contribute to the school's food programmes, offering fresh, organic ingredients while fostering a deeper connection to nature and promoting community well-being in line with Doughnut Economics principles.

Youngsters implemented Doughnut Economics through clothing swaps, promoting sustainable consumption and reducing waste. By organising swap events, they created a system where gently used clothes were exchanged instead of discarded, extending the lifecycle of garments and minimising the environmental impact of fashion. This initiative educates peers about the negative effects of fast fashion and encourages a shift towards sustainability. Clothing swaps also foster a sense of community and inclusivity, allowing students to share resources and support one another. Through these efforts, students embody the principles of doughnut economics by balancing social needs and ecological sustainability.

Young people should implement Doughnut Economics in small towns because they have the energy, creativity, and vested interest in creating a sustainable future. By adopting this model, they can drive positive change in their communities, promoting economic practices that respect both planetary boundaries and social foundations. Their initiatives, such as establishing herb gardens and organising clothing swaps, demonstrate practical applications of sustainable living. By leading these efforts, young people can inspire broader community engagement, foster resilience, and ensure a prosperous, balanced future for all. Their active participation is crucial in shaping a world that thrives within the safe and just space envisioned by Doughnut Economics.