What’s this…Donut?
Doughnut Economics, developed by economist Kate Raworth, is a framework that defines the boundaries of a healthy society by balancing human needs, such as housing, education, and healthcare, with ecological limits that protect the planet’s life-supporting systems, such as our Great Lake.
Learn more in our Donut Deep Dive page under “Other Resources”!
Who We Are
ChiDEC (Chicagoland Donut Economics Coalition) is a new initiative filled with individuals from all walks of life brought together for one purpose: to reimagine the economy.
Using the tools at Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL), ChiDEC strives to promote a regenerative and redistributive economy in the Chicago area through engagement with various sectors and adjacent schools of thoughts.*
*regenerative/redistributive, sustainability, social equity, circular economy, degrowth, Green Deal 2.0, and more
We are organized into four areas of support:
- Data Portrait of Place (any level). Quantitative assessments, targets, indicators. Use at any of these levels: neighborhood/community, municipal, county, state, country.
- Grassroots, neighborhood, community. Ask us about informational sessions and interactive workshops. Case studies are available.
- Local governments. Ask about nine different pathways to engage with local government. Case studies are available.
- Businesses. Businesses and industries worldwide are using DEAL business tools, including over 300 businesses and 22 pilot workshops.
Our Goal
ChiDEC’s goal is to create a data portrait of Chicago, using local data, community knowledge, and lived experience. The data portrait is a visual tool showing where our city is thriving, where we are exceeding ecological limits, and where we are falling short on ensuring social well-being for all. In its completion, we plan to help residents, organizations, and decision-makers see the big picture of where Chicago stands and identify opportunities to build a more equitable and sustainable city through the insights we derive.