THERE will be an interactive workshop on Monday, October 23 at Burley-in-Wharfedale Library which will explore the central concepts of Doughnut Economics and what they mean for those living and working in Wharfedale.

A spokesperson for the event said: "Humanity’s 21st century challenge is to meet the needs of all people and other life forms within the means of the planet. It is essential that we ensure that no one falls short on life’s essentials, including nutritious food, health care, a political voice, human rights, housing, education etc. We also need to ensure that collectively we do not overshoot our pressure on Earth’s life-supporting systems, on which we fundamentally depend – such as a stable climate, fertile soils, and breathable air.

"The Doughnut of Social and Planetary Boundaries is an approach to framing that challenge, and it can act as a compass for human progress this century. It was developed by Kate Raworth, a self-described ‘renegade economist’ during her time working for Oxfam, and was presented to a wider audience with the publication of her book ‘Doughnut Economics’ in 2017. Since then it has been adopted by cities, regions and even countries across the world as a blueprint for regenerative, nature friendly and people friendly progress.

"The Leeds Doughnut Coalition was set up by Our Future Leeds/Climate Action Leeds in 2020 to explore the potential of the Doughnut Economics’ model to guide work with the council, local businesses and other stakeholders. The aim is to build a city where people can thrive in balance with nature, with people across the world, and with each other. The Otley Doughnut group was set up in 2021 as a working group within Otley 2030, which is a community based climate and social justice organisation, and the Doughnut concept has become an overarching ethical compass for the organisation.

"Both groups have the support of the Professor of Urban Futures, Paul Chatterton, in the School of Geography at Leeds University. This link has provided us with a steady stream of students interested in the field of sustainable futures who have furnished us with research capacity leading to very practical outcomes."

The workshop, in Burley-in-Wharfedale Library from 1.30pm to 3pm on Monday, October 23, will be an informal interactive session involving the exploration of the doughnut concept through slides and activities. It will be delivered by two members of the Otley Doughnut group: Shannon Coles, who set up and facilitates the group, and Trish Mersh, a Burley resident who has recently joined the Otley group.

All are welcome and there is no charge to attend. Refreshments and a Warm Space will be available as normal during the library’s opening hours.