Center for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy

Welcome to the Center for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy (CASSE). We are a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to advocating a sustainable economy with stabilized population and consumption. This economy is called a "steady state economy."

Why does CASSE exist?

Slowly but surely, economic growth has become a primary threat to our national security, the environment, and future generations. For some visitors, this idea might seem heretical, but go to our resources page and expect a paradigm shift. Economic growth was a blessing for much of U.S. history, but now it is causing more problems - dire problems - than it solves. Yet economic growth remains the highest priority in the domestic policy arena! Our students and citizens are continually told that there is no limit to economic growth, in defiance of ecological principles and basic physics. We support a sustainable economy that operates within the limits dictated by Earth's ecosystems -- in short we want an economy that is balanced with nature.

What does CASSE do?

For starters, CASSE advocates a carefully crafted, scientifically sound position on economic growth. Please support the position by e-signing it (we will not contact you unless requested). We offer resources for those interested in learning about the steady state economy or teaching courses in ecological economics. We also provide commentary on standard university economics (dubbed neoclassical economics) and review current economic events. CASSE supports a speakers network that delivers presenations and lectures. Visit our action page to see how you can get more involved.

In the coming generations, what will people wish we had done? What do we want to keep for the kids and grandkids? What natural ecosystems and functions do we want to conserve?

How much growth is enough? At what point does economic growth overwhelm ecosystems and become "uneconomic"? Why not aim for better rather than bigger?

"CASSE is the foremost organization in advancing the precepts of the steady state economy to citizens and policy makers -- an indispensable resource!" -Herman Daly