Distinguishing ecological modernization and ecomodernism. Environmental policy implications

Abstract

Ecological modernization and ecomodernism assume that liberal democracies can address their ecological challenges. However, scholars seem to overlook that each rests on distinct theoretical assumptions and political programs. This paper compares the two approaches and analyzes their practical implications. Ecological modernization and ecomodernism embrace rationalist and reformist environmental politics to achieve absolute decoupling through Green New Deals. Ecological modernization calls for market-led precautionary innovation regulated by governments and supported by green consumerism. In contrast, ecomodernists advocate for state-driven proactionary and comprehensive innovation and are dismissive of demand-side policies. These differences point to three policy implications. First, the precautionary principle might need careful reconsideration to reconcile economic and environmental performance. Second, eco-innovation may require a stronger commitment from nation states to implement effective supply-side policies. Third, accelerated absolute decoupling requires promoting and setting rational consumption targets. Together, these implications involve dilemmas of technological and social innovation that liberal democracies should navigate to meet sustainability goals.