The discussion paper proposes a definition of alternative economy as an empirical-analytical concept for systematically recording socially and ecologically transformative economic forms. In view of growing criticism of the dominant, growth- and profit-driven economic system, alternative economy is understood as a collective term for companies and organizational forms that are characterized by different objectives, structures, and practices. At the heart of the definition is their focus on social-ecological transformation goals, which can manifest themselves in alternative products and services, democratic forms of organization, solidarity-based stakeholder relationships, and the use of resources for the common good. The alternative economy deliberately distances itself from superficial approaches to sustainability and aims at profound changes in economic institutions, ownership structures, labor relations, and economic practices. 

Christian Lautermann discusses differences and intersections between the alternative economy and related fields in business and society. These include the conventional economy, the social economy, the informal economy, traditional associations, and public enterprises. The author presents various organizational forms as typical enterprises of the alternative economy: on the one hand, organizational forms that have established themselves in certain supply areas – such as housing cooperatives, community-supported agriculture, citizen energy cooperatives, and social department stores. On the other hand, industry-independent enterprise forms such as collective enterprises, social enterprises, and community-supported enterprises also belong to the alternative economy.  

The paper advocates the use of the term “alternative economy” as an integrating umbrella term that reflects the diversity of socially and ecologically ambitious economic forms and at the same time offers clear criteria for empirical research. The definition serves as a basis for regional inventories – such as the study on the alternative economy in the state of Bremen, which was conducted at the same time – and is intended to stimulate public debate on necessary economic transformations. By emphasizing the radical nature and depth of alternatives, the approach helps to distinguish genuine transformation approaches from mere modifications of the status quo.