Dr. Thomas Hahn Advocates for a Sustainable Economic Future at International Conference | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Peermade, Kuttikkanam (February 21, 2025) In a compelling keynote address at Mar Baselios Christian College of Engineering & Technology, renowned economist and sustainability expert Dr. Thomas Hahn called for a fundamental shift in global economic thinking. The event, titled “Genuine Green Growth: Meeting the Paris Agreement Targets,” alerted policymakers, political leaders, academics, business leaders, environmental engineers and social advocates to discuss sustainable solutions for the future.
The conference focused on pressing climate issues, the role of governments and businesses, and the necessity of robust climate policies aligned with global agreements. Dr. Hahn’s speech went beyond policy discussions as he genuinely challenged the very foundation of economic growth as it is measured today.
Beyond GDP: A New Vision for Economics
Dr. Hahn began his address by questioning the long-standing reliance on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the primary measure of a country’s success. “GDP growth does not equate to progress if it comes at the cost of environmental degradation and social inequality,” he stated. Instead, he advocated for an economic model centered on human well-being, environmental sustainability, and resource efficiency.
He argued that current economic systems incentivize overconsumption and unsustainable resource extraction, leading to climate disasters and biodiversity loss. “We need to shift from an extractive economy to a regenerative one, where economic activity restores rather than depletes our planet’s resources,” he emphasized.
Genuine Green Growth: Decoupling Development from Environmental Harm
A core theme of Dr. Hahn’s presentation was the concept of “genuine green growth,” which seeks to meet the Paris Agreement targets by reducing carbon emissions while ensuring economic wellbeing. He warned that the countries must achieve absolute decoupling of economic growth from resource consumption.
He cited data indicating that while some nations have made progress in decoupling GDP growth from carbon emissions, global material consumption continues to rise. “If we do not address resource overuse, even achieving net-zero emissions will not prevent ecological collapse,” he cautioned.
Dr. Hahn outlined key strategies for achieving genuine green growth:
Sustainable Solutions for the Future: Investing in renewable energy, circular economies, and regenerative agriculture to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and non-renewable resources.
The Role of Governments & Businesses: Strengthening policy frameworks and corporate responsibility to encourage sustainable production and consumption.
Climate Policies & Global Agreements: Implementing and enforcing stronger environmental policies that align with international commitments like the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Q&A Session: The Way Forward
During the interactive Q&A session, attendees posed questions on policy implementation, corporate accountability, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Dr. Hahn highlighted the need for bold political action and grassroots movements to drive systemic change.
He also stressed that businesses must shift from short-term profit motives to long-term sustainability goals. “Economic growth should not be about accumulating wealth but about enhancing collective well-being, ensuring social equity, and preserving the planet for future generations.”
Dr. Hahn urged stakeholders to rethink economic priorities, saying, “We are at a crossroads. Will we choose a future where progress is measured by sustainable prosperity, or will we continue chasing GDP growth at the expense of our planet?”
