ecosocialist

Ecosocialism is a political ideology that combines aspects of socialism with a critique of capitalism's environmental impact. It argues that ecological problems are inseparable from social and economic structures, and that solving climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution requires transforming production relations, not merely adding green technologies. Ecosocialists advocate democratically planned economies, common or public ownership of key sectors, and policies that prioritize ecological sustainability, social justice, and democratic participation.

An ecosocialist is a person who adheres to the principles of ecosocialism and advocates a democratic, ecological socialist society.

Core aims include reducing ecological footprints, transitioning to renewable energy, reorienting agriculture toward agroecology, and decoupling growth from environmental harm. This often involves ecological taxation, public investment in green jobs, de-commodification of nature, and broad-based participation in decision-making, sometimes through democratic municipalities or participatory planning.

Historical development: the term gained prominence in the late 20th century with theorists such as Murray Bookchin's social ecology, Joel Kovel's and Michael Löwy's eco-socialist writings, and the broader eco-socialist movement that connects environmental justice with labor movements. It draws from Marxist analysis of capitalism and critiques of growth-centric development, while incorporating environmental justice perspectives and feminist eco-critique.

Criticism and debate: detractors argue it risks centralized planning or economic inefficiency; supporters emphasize ecologically guided, participatory planning as a democratic alternative. In practice, ecosocialist ideas appear in academic work, activist networks, and some national parties' platforms, often aligned with broader green or socialist movements.