A regenerative economy is an economic system that focuses on moving beyond the sustainability of resources to actively working to regenerate and revitalize them. Its goal is to improve and enhance the health and well-being of both people and the planet.
Unlike traditional economies, which often promote uncapped growth at the expense of environmental and social well-being, a regenerative economy aims to restore and renew natural resources, rebuild and protect communities, and create lasting long-term value.
Transforming economic systems toward regenerative practices for shared prosperity is central to achieving a stakeholder-driven economy. This shift encourages long-term societal and environmental wellbeing.
ASBN plays a pivotal role in shaping a new narrative of inclusive stakeholder and community-based business ownership — one that prioritizes justice-informed access to resources and capital to create opportunities for all.
A shift to sustainable and regenerative economic models could generate $26 trillion in economic benefits and create 65 million new jobs by 2030. (Global Commission on Economy & Climate, 2018)
The circular economy, a key component of regenerative economics, is projected to be a $10 trillion economic opportunity by 2030. (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2022)
Countries investing in regenerative agriculture, clean energy, and circular economies see 6.5% higher GDP growth than those relying on extractive models. (World Economic Forum, 2021)
A regenerative economy prioritizes restoring and enhancing natural ecosystems by reducing waste, embracing renewable resources, and adopting practices like circular production and regenerative agriculture. This approach not only mitigates climate change but also ensures that vital resources like clean air, water, and fertile soil are replenished for future generations.
At its core, a regenerative economy invests in the well-being of people by fostering equitable access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making. By uplifting historically underserved communities and promoting inclusive collaboration, this model ensures shared prosperity, resilience, and stronger social cohesion.
*Photo Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jordan Hollarsmith
Innovation in green chemistry and safer product design is fundamental to a regenerative economy. By prioritizing non-toxic, biodegradable, and renewable materials, businesses can reduce environmental harm while promoting human and environmental health. Innovations can create products that support a circular economy and minimize pollution at every stage of their lifecycle.
A regenerative economy is one that works with natural systems rather than exploiting them, fostering an economy where growth and value creation does not come at the cost of environmental degradation or social inequity.
Promoting the production and use of safer chemicals and circular economic principles is essential for transitioning to a regenerative economy, especially as consumers demand more ethical products. Our work helps companies drive innovation and reduce costs through efforts that:
Growing GRASS is a USDA-funded project of the American Sustainable Business Institute/Network and Other Half Processing. Together, we are building regenerative cattle and bison value for producers, people, and the planet.
Growing GRASS is an interdisciplinary research and demonstration project to advance a verification-based market that increases the value of beef and bison byproduct supply chains and restores soil health and biodiversity.
*Photo Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jordan Hollarsmith
Climate change is increasingly disrupting lives and businesses across the US. Clean energy, like solar and wind power, reduces our reliance on fossil fuels and their associated environmental and climate impacts.
ASBN has been instrumental in advocating for policies like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Bill, leading to significant progress in shifting our economies towards more regenerative practices. We champion investments in climate, justice, clean energy and agriculture as a means to build a more sustainable economy.
Launched Growing GRASS, an interdisciplinary research and demonstration project to advance a verification-based market that increases the value of beef and bison byproduct supply chains and restores soil health and biodiversity.
Developed policies governing poly- and per-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), and successfully advocated at both state and federal levels for PFAS regulations.
Lobbied for passage of the California Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act.
Coordinating a business response to the Federal Trade Commission’s regulation of greenwashing and revisions to its Green Guides.
Worked with coalition partners to pass the Federal Safer Cosmetics Act.
ASBN was recognized by the White House for its support of the critical climate provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act.
Delivered a report and collaborative briefing on Sustainable Chemistry to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Provided testimony at the Energy and Climate Change House Subcommittee Hearing on Recycling.
Worked with coalition partners to pass the California Cosmetic Products Flavor and Fragrance Act.
ASBN named EPA Safer Choice Partners of the Year for two years.
Camilla Taylor, our Executice Director, is available for speaking engagements and presentations on related topics.
Join ASBN and be part of a powerful network of businesses using their voice to shape policies for a just and regenerative economy. Together, we drive bold solutions that put people and the planet first—because better business creates a better world.
Stay up to date
Get the latest news and updates delivered straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.
