Finance

It is easy to forget when we hear about signs of economic recovery that communities across the UK continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the recession. Whilst there is substantial work taking place nationally and locally to support individuals and businesses, we need to keep the spotlight on those areas in danger of being left behind. This is especially true when it comes to access to financial services with poorer communities suffering most from bank withdrawal of branches and services.

Green growth is a myth. Because it ignores the social, political and personal dimensions of sustainability, it can never cut deep enough into the structures of self and society to secure solutions to the crises that we face, says Andre Reichel.

In discussions of the future of economic growth, ‘business as usual’ is not an option. The alternative, say many, is ‘green growth’: growth that is resource-efficient, low-carbon and socially-inclusive. In this line of thinking, green growth is the key to managing climate change, bringing eco-friendly development to emerging economies, renewing economic structures in industrialized nations, and creating more jobs to employ a rising population.