The Lentil Intervention Podcast

Deirdre Kent - Fixing The Economic System

August 14, 2023 Ben and Emma Season 4 Episode 15
The Lentil Intervention Podcast
Deirdre Kent - Fixing The Economic System
Show Notes

Deirdre Kent is a long-time environmental activist with a background in teaching, campaigning, and lobbying and is also a prolific author, having written six books. Deirdre has been involved in numerous research and political campaigning efforts and has established various organisations such as Transition Town Ōtaki, the Ōtaki Timebank and The New Economics Party.

Being involved in green economics for many years, Deirdre has most recently co-founded Degrowth Aotearoa New Zealand and talks extensively about various economic concepts, currency design, money and the environment on her website. Not only that, Deirdre is an ardent supporter of a whole food plant-based diet for the associated environmental and health benefits and speaks passionately on this subject.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Deirdre’s diverse background
  • Spearheading Transition Town Ōtaki and The Ōtaki Timebank
  • The Degrowth movement in New Zealand and establishing Degrowth Aotearoa
  • Championing change towards degrowth economic principles
  • Tradable energy quotas vs Emission trading schemes
  • Potential benefits of Tradable Energy Quotas
  • The importance of considering dietary choices as an environmentalist
  • The dairy industry in New Zealand
  • Tips for effective lobbying and the importance of visual mediums


To view all the links to the websites and documents, visit the show notes on our website. Don't forget to subscribe to this podcast, leave us a review and share this episode with your friends and family.

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