Doughnut Economics Simulation

Version 1.0 (October 2021) 

Overview

This tool consists of a spreadsheet that could be applied for simulating interactions between countries, companies, financial institutions, international organizations, and civil society in a global setting.

It has been designed and implemented for educational purposes in a course in Economics of the Global South.

It has been used in an online setting but could be also applied in a face-to-face environment in its current format.

Why use it?

It allows the application of theoretical knowledge in a practical way.

It helps students understand the intricacies of the global economy and the complexity in seeking to achieve social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

It contributes to helping students acquire a set of key cognitive, skill-based, and affective learning outcomes that are crucial for education for sustainable development.

Who is it for?

Educators working in higher education institutions (even though it could be adapted to lower educational levels), policymakers, decision-makers, or facilitators willing to organize a workshop regarding Doughnut Economics.

How long does it take?

It has been applied during a three-hour session, but the format is flexible and could be implemented in shorter or longer sessions. 

Longer simulations will allow the students to explore the intricacies of Doughnut Economics in deeper detail and have a more enriching experience.

How many people is it for?

It could be used with groups of 10 to 50 students. We recommend that they work in teams during the simulations to enhance teamwork, discussion, public speaking and 

What materials do you need?

A detailed explanation of the implementation and the toolkit (spreadsheet) can be accessed in the scientific paper following the link below.

(This tool will be updated as we use it on more occasions)

What does the facilitator need to know or be able to do?

The facilitator must master the theoretical framework of the doughnut economy and the circular economy. He/she should also read the instructions carefully and familiarize him/herself with the spreadsheets before implementing the activity.

Acknowledgments

This tool was developed in collaboration with Prof. Ángela Suárez-Collado, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, University of Salamanca

Links

The results of the educational experience have been published here: https://doi.org/10.3390/su13137201

Citation

Sierra, Javier; Suárez-Collado, Ángela. Understanding Economic, Social, and Environmental Sustainability Challenges in the Global South. 2021. Sustainability. (13) Page 7201. https://doi.org/10.3390/SU13137201.