Beyond the bottleneck: A systematic look ahead

Murray discusses the Limits to Growth pragmatically, via lateral and systems thinking.

The global system set out to grow, but is beginning to ‘can't'. The eventual replacement system – say by 2100 – is reasonably obvious; many less people, much less physical consumption, much less surplus energy, and entropy has become a major factor.

The question is simple, given that our system is not guaranteed to survive (as are many of our taken-for-granted sub-systems; the internet, the grid, money), in what form(s) and over what time frame, will the morph occur?

Using our remaining time/resources to morph in an ad hoc manner, is invalid; the Onslow debate is – and sadly will be a classic example of this. Anticipating what will be maintainable beyond the cessation of growth, then triaging what will be worth retaining  – both culturally and physically – is the way to go.

About the speaker

Murray describes himself as specialising in being a generalist. He has served as an elected member at both levels of local government and researches energy, growth, and limits.

He and partner Jennie have lived more than 20 years off-grid, some of it sailing. They are on their second passive-solar house (this one rates Homestar 8), have grown a forest, and are reasonably self-sufficient in food. 15 years ago, he, like many, thought we could just go renewable, green, and move on. Now he thinks we are out of time and facing a singular global event, about which he strives to raise awareness.

Streaming details

Zoom link: https://otago.zoom.us/j/9151310087
Password: 008743

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