Abstract: The degrowth movement challenges the paradigm of economic growth, and promotes a dual agenda of ecological sustainability and social justice. However, critics argue that, within a capitalist system, degrowth will ultimately undermine social justice by increasing poverty and inequality, as businesses collapse and jobs are lost. The recent economic recession in the wealthier capitalist countries appears to confirm this prediction, apparently intensifying hardship and inequity. Therefore, we need to seriously consider whether degrowth is feasible in a capitalist economy, which appears to depend on growth. If it is not, how do we create an equal, just and ecological society? This presentation will discuss these issues, drawing on a case study of socialist Cuba, a country which has been recognised for its social and environmental achievements, despite experiencing a sudden and extreme drop in GDP.