The concept of green economy is being widely used in policy circles and debates between stakeholders of various backgrounds. However, how is this concept useful for pushing forward discussions on climate policy planning or policymaking promoting more sustainable development outcomes? And to what extent is it consistent with the body of scholarship that we call “real climate economics”? Perhaps the clue is in the terminology being used and its associated definitions. If one were to put in front of you two words, “green economy”, what would your first take on this be? My first reaction (putting aside any previous knowledge of the term): an economy that produces goods for human consumption by respecting nature and harnessing its potential efficiently and without damage. A quick literature review reveals this is only partly true. (more…)