Organised by Daisy Hainsworth, School Representative for Economics, with the support of staff members Rachael Mabe and Ruth Cufflin, the session with Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL) was arranged as a result of student feedback highlighting a desire to learn more about environmental economics.
The Doughnut Economics model is a visual framework for sustainable development explored in the book of the same name. Comprised of two circles, the inner circle highlights essential human needs, such as food, healthcare and education, and the outer circle defines ecological limits on the planet's resources. The space in between represents the ‘optimal zone’ where society can exist sustainably.
The session provided extensive insight into Kate Raworth's model of 'Doughnut Economics’ and it’s increasing social and environmental necessity in the ever-evolving world of business. Students also enjoyed the opportunity to develop key employability skills including team working, communication and business awareness through interaction and collaboration.
Discussing the event, Daisy said: “Having read the ‘Doughnut Economics’ book during sixth form, I thought DEAL would be the perfect organisation to collaborate with. It was fantastic to see such a good turnout from students, and I want to thank all our Economics lecturers who supported the event, Dr Allyson King, Dr Dawid Trzeciakiewicz, and Professor Ali Choudhary. The academics at Loughborough have been so supportive and they were thrilled to see Economics students showing real initiative and a passion for enhancing their subject knowledge.”
Working in teams, students engaged in a workshop-style activity, using the ‘Doughnut Design for Business’ tool as they explored business design through five key elements: purpose, networks, governance, ownership, and finance. Students were able to reflect on the steps that every business can take to redesign their core activities to become distributive and regenerative. All attendees received a certificate of participation to recognise their engagement in the event and showcase their dedication to learning more about sustainable business practices.
Alarice Debrah, a student who attended the event, said: “Attending the Sustainable and Regenerative Business workshop, hosted by Loughborough Business School and Doughnut Economics Action Lab, was an eye-opening experience for me. The interactive format allowed me to develop critical skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and sustainable business thinking. This event not only deepened my understanding of transformative practices like Doughnut Economics but also empowered me to approach future challenges with a sustainability-first mindset.”
Learn more about Loughborough Business School’s ethos and commitment to 'Progress with Purpose'