Postgrowth and Degrowth in and beyond the Italian debate.

Introduction

Degrowth and Postgrowth debates are thriving internationally, especially at the European level. In a present of unprecedented ecological, economic, social, and political crises, Degrowth and Postgrowth provide analytical perspectives to understand this conjuncture and practical proposals for liveable futures based on equity, sustainability, democracy, inclusion, social and ecological justice. These approaches, which are highly interdisciplinary, hold together ecological economic and policy analyses, critical perspectives on technological innovation, urban studies, anthropological understandings and sociological insights. Italy was one of the first countries where degrowth ideas became popular in the first decade of the 2000s and took hold in political movements and agendas – with the second International Conference of Degrowth hosted in Venice in 2012. Yet, this popularity has not been matched by a significant rootedness in academia, with highly recognised Italian scholars finding their space only abroad. Today, interest in research on degrowth and postgrowth is nevertheless finding new momentum, especially among young researchers. We believe this to be an opportune moment for convening a moment of collective reflection to strengthen the Italian research network in degrowth and postgrowth studies. The objectives of the conference include a recognition of the state of the art of contemporary debates, research opportunities, and future directions. To this end, we aim to launch the Italian Degrowth and Post-Growth Research Network, providing a space for coordination, collaboration, and future initiatives among scholars working in the field.

The conference is hosted by the Environment Research Cluster at the School of International Studies.

Submit your contribution: Please refer to our CfP, abstracts are to be submitted to alice.dalgobbo@unitn.it

Preliminary program:

Day 1

MORNING SESSION

Introduction to the conference

Keynote Lecture: Degrowth and postgrowth debates across disciplines: past, present and future directions (TBC)

AFTERNOON SESSIONS

Thematic sessions based on paper selection

Day 2

 MORNING SESSION

Roundtable Discussion: Conducting Degrowth Research in Italy: Perspectives, Challenges, Limitations, Resources, and Future Directions

AFTERNOON SESSION

Thematic sessions based on paper selection

Side Event: Launch of the Italian Degrowth and Post-Growth Research Network

The conference will host the official launch and first assembly of the Italian Degrowth and Post-Growth Research Network, providing a space for coordination, collaboration, and future initiatives among scholars working in the field.