The United States isn’t broke; we’re the richest country on the planet and a country in which the richest among us are doing exceptionally well. But the truth is, our economy is broken, producing more pollution, greenhouse gasses and garbage than any other country. In these and so many other ways, it just isn’t working. But rather than invest in something better, we continue to keep this ‘dinosaur economy’ on life support with hundreds of billions of dollars of our tax money. The Story of Broke calls for a shift in government spending toward investments in clean, green solutions—renewable energy, safer chemicals and materials, zero waste and more—that can deliver jobs AND a healthier environment. It’s time to rebuild the American Dream; but this time, let’s build it better.
The story of broke
By Annie Leonard, originally published by the story of stuff project
November 10, 2011
Annie Leonard
Annie Leonard is the creator of the Story of Stuff (2007), and other animated films including The Story of Broke, The Story of Change, and The Story of Solutions. In 2014, she became the Executive Director of Greenpeace USA.
Tags: Building Community, Culture & Behavior, Media & Communications
Related Articles
Radical abundance through degrowth – a vision for a communal economy
Saito makes a compelling case this is exactly the kind of economy we need, one which will slow it down so we can deal with our multifaceted crises. In other words, to leave a world with which our children can cope. But is it the kind of economy we can have? How do we get from there to here?
May 29, 2025
The Many Innovative Spheres of Organized Sharing
By David Bollier, David Bollier blog
In its many projects, Shareable has shown just how diverse, creative, and consequential organized sharing can be. The power of bottom-up collaboration focused on specific needs is powerful. When modest infrastructures are created to empower people to contribute their talents, some amazing things happen.
May 28, 2025
The Economy for Life Is Ready to Replace Capitalism
By Vlad Bunea, Economy for Life
In this mess we are in today, with fascism on the rise, with the risk of war, with burnout and anxiety, there are many reasons for hope. If we fight to get rid of capitalism and transition to an economy that truly values life, I think we can win.
May 27, 2025



