Consider for a moment: how might the world be different if every human on the planet were engaged in work that was meaningful to them, provided for their daily needs, and contributed to the future wellbeing of the planet? May 1 is internationally recognized as a day to honor workers, but to truly honor workers requires rethinking the nature of work. The real work is to regenerate the ecological and social systems that have been badly damaged.

In the following video, writer and activist Paul Hawken explores this question and the idea of regenerative development through his recently-released book Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming. Project Drawdown has mapped, measured and modelled the top 100 most substantive, already-existing solutions for addressing global warming, and revealed that we can actually roll it back by 2050. 

In the work of regenerating the planet, there is a role to play for everyone, so this model supports the vision of a world where everyone is employed in meaningful work. If you’re interested in learning more about regenerative development, check out this article from Kosmos Journal, Regenerative Development: Going Beyond Sustainability.

Where do you see an opportunity for regenerative development, either in your life, your community, or in the world?