WHAT WE DO
Rethinking Growth,
Redefining Progress:
A Lab of Visionary Thinkers
Policy Lab is a think-and-act tank that researches and educates on degrowth, with the goal of driving social and economic change. We create spaces for critical discussions, build interconnected communities, and actively shape progressive policies that lead to a more just and sustainable world.
We challenge the failures of conventional politics, which offer contradictory and inadequate responses to sustainability and human needs, and push for a fundamental rethinking of what progress truly means.
At Policy Lab, we aim to shift the narrative towards drastic, unconventional strategies. We don’t just imagine transformative solutions; we actively build the path toward a future that is socially just and ecologically sustainable.
DEGROWTH SCHOOL
SHAPING FOUNDATIONS FOR POST-GROWTH FUTURE
Embark on a transformative journey with our International Degrowth School—an incubator for post-growth ideas. In a world grappling with polycrises, we champion active citizenship and critical thinking. Our school, nestled in Slovenia’s Trnovo Forest Plateau, is more than an educational lab—it’s a vibrant space for diverse minds to connect, exchange ideas, and forge alliances.
Join us at the crossroads of generations, cultures, and professions. Challenge the status quo, explore cutting-edge degrowth concepts, and ignite change in a serene, natural setting.
UNDERSTANDING DEGROWTH
We Don’t Want Less of the Same,
We Want Something Completely Different
Policy Lab promotes degrowth, advocating that wealthy economies move away from GDP growth (as the only policy objective) towards sustainability and prosperity within the limits of our planet.
Degrowth envisions a society that values systems thinking and recognises the interconnectedness of today’s polycrises. It requires redesigning economic institutions to focus on meeting human needs and transforming the way we organise society.
The academic base supporting degrowth has grown rapidly, with over 600 scientific studies and identified 380 policy instruments outlining practical strategies for transition. Influential concepts such as the Doughnut Economy model have inspired cities such as Amsterdam and Brussels to rethink urban planning. In addition, international Degrowth conferences and Beyond Growth 2023, and the formation of the Wellbeing Economy Governments partnership underline a growing global consensus on the need for economies that prioritise environmental sustainability and human well-being over mere profit.
Explore how degrowth strategies can lead to a thriving society focused on human needs rather than perpetual economic expansion.
While you’re here, your contribution is a vital force driving Policy Lab towards meaningful change. We're committed to providing valuable research free of charge, and your support is the cornerstone of making that commitment a reality.
By donating, you enable us to maintain and expand our impact, ensuring that our work will continue to thrive for years to come.
Your generosity is more than a donation; it's a catalyst for tangible change. Every contribution helps us turn innovative ideas into real impact. Join us in shaping a future that prioritises equity, sustainability and a thriving society. Make a difference today by supporting Policy Lab.
MEET OUR VISIONARIES
A forward-thinking duo committed to making a significant impact on the future economy through socioecological transformation.
Ajda Pistotnik & Aljoša Slameršak: Architects of Change
Policy Lab is a fresh organization founded by Ajda Pistotnik and Aljoša Slameršak, a passionate duo dedicated to shaping the future of policy making.
As the Co-founder and Director of the Policy Lab, Ajda Pistotnik is a true force of nature when it comes to promoting sustainable and equitable economic development. Her visionary approach to progressive politics has led her to co-organize the Degrowth School in Slovenia, as well as investigate the EU’s economy Beyond GDP.
She is an active member of various organizations, including FundAction, an activist-led participatory grantmaking fund. Ajda’s work extends far beyond Slovenia’s borders, as she has moderated policy debates and presented outcomes of her policy research on financial justice & debt economy at various policy forums, such as the G20 in Hamburg, UNCTAD in Nairobi (Kenya), and IMF annual meeting in Lima (Peru). She was also the initiator of the degrowth community in Slovenia and a co-organizer of the International Degrowth Conference in Budapest.
As a member of the editorial board of the Journal for the Critique of Science, Imagination and New Anthropology, Ajda is constantly engaged in critical thinking and scholarly work. Currently, she serves as a member of the Strategic Council for Economy at the Ministry of Economic Development in Slovenia. Her extensive experience as a policy researcher and project manager, combined with her exceptional analytical and communication skills, has enabled her to work effectively with NGOs, academia, media, and international government agencies.
Aljoša Slameršak is a Co-founder and Research Consultant at the Policy Lab, bringing a wealth of expertise gained from his research career. His doctoral research, titled “The end of energy abundance: Embracing biophysical limits to a low-carbon energy transition,” focused on environmental science and technology, degrowth, and low-carbon energy transition, providing him with a unique perspective on the challenges we face.
With publications in prestigious scientific journals, including Nature Energy, Nature Communications, and The Lancet Planetary Health, Aljoša has highlighted the crucial need to transition to lower-energy use from low-carbon sources and address inequalities between the Global North and South.As a passionate advocate for sustainability, Aljoša is committed to utilizing his skills and knowledge to help create a more equitable and environmentally responsible future. He is excited about the outreach opportunities offered by Policy Lab’s activities and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on society and the planet.
WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU
Unlock Your Potential with Policy Lab's Expertise
Join us on a journey of impactful change with Policy Lab’s tailored services.
Designed to meet the diverse needs of changemakers across the spectrum – from activists to policymakers shaping the future, from visionary entrepreneurs driving innovation to forward-thinking civil society organisations – our offerings are your toolkit for engaging with the complex challenges of the 21st century.
Dive into the possibilities that await you with Policy Lab. Together we can navigate the complexities of today to shape the realities of tomorrow.
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TESTIMONIALS
ALLIANCES & PARTNERS
