Concerned about increasing wealth inequality, climate change and financial instability, Steady State Manchester believes an alternative approach to economic development in the city and region is essential so that all can live well and within planetary limits. We encourage organisations to actively pursue the ‘Viable Economy’ for a safe and good future for us all. A Viable Economy (and society) will involve:

• Re-localising food and other production in and near to the city, providing decent green jobs and more income equality.

• More security for us all because the environment is protected from further destruction.

• More secure access to goods especially food: we will be more resilient should there be climatic (e.g. floods) or financial shocks.

• More money staying local and more control over savings and investment.

• The city’s wealth being used for needed developments, for example energy efficient, affordable housing and invested in other local, green and ethical enterprises

• Balance. Some sectors must grow, (e.g. renewable energy) and some must shrink (e.g. fossil fuels, aviation, private motoring, arms manufacture).

• The focus is on the things we want the economy to deliver, rather than growth for growth’s sake (GDP or GVA measures).

• Less unnecessary consumption and a new culture of solidarity and participation.

• Less exploitation of the majority world while keeping open channels for communication and learning globally.