Why Ecosocialism: For a Red-Green Future

Michael Löwy

The capitalist system, driven at its core by the maximisation of profit, regardless of social and ecological costs, is incompatible with a just and sustainable future. Ecosocialism offers a radical alternative that puts social and ecological well-being first. Attuned to the links between the exploitation of labour and the exploitation of the environment, ecosocialism stands against both reformist “market ecology” and “productivist socialism.” By embracing a new model of robustly democratic planning, society can take control of the means of production and its own destiny. Shorter work hours and a focus on authentic needs over consumerism can facilitate the elevation of “being” over “having,” and the achievement of a deeper sense of freedom for all. To realise this vision, however, environmentalists and socialists will need to recognise their common struggle and how that connects with the broader “movement of movements” seeking a Great Transition.

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