This is the second of a planned ‘trilogy’ of sessions on the contentious relationship between degrowth and technology. It represents the second of three subthemes of a special issue on technology and degrowth, which is currently being edited for the Journal of Cleaner Production. This special session focuses on practical implementation of technological development and innovation, which is guided by Degrowth principles such as non-profit orientation, democratic distribution of power or open access. Especially when considering technology and innovation we are still lacking imaginaries and good practice examples. This session fills this gap and presents case studies of putting Degrowth principles into practice. The examples include technological communities dealing with DIY approaches, FAB labs, renewable co-operatives and open source software. In the special session, the specific characteristics of each case are being highlighted and their potentials for a Degrowth society are being discussed. This involves analysis of participatory governance and assessment of technologies of relevance for Degrowth. To hedge against false optimism, also the dangers and pitfalls of alternative technologies and practices will be addressed.

The session generates a broader picture of what is of particular importance when thinking about technology and innovative in a Degrowth society. The discussion will focus on the lessons learned from the case studies for emancipatory practices and self-determined technological development that include Degrowth principles. Alongside, the discussion will provide outlooks of what technologies and innovative practices are needed for the 22th century.

This media entry was a contribution to the special session „Technology and Innovation for the 22th century“ at the 5th International Degrowth Conference in Budapest in 2016.