Multidimensional Transition Pathway Analysis for Sustainable Futures: Exploring Alternative Paradigms and Broadening Policy Options through Innovative Scenario Development

Multidimensional Transition Pathway Analysis for Sustainable Futures: Exploring Alternative Paradigms and Broadening Policy Options through Innovative Scenario Development

MultiFutures systematically broadens the scope for policy action towards sustainable societies by assessing and developing transition scenarios based on alternative economic paradigms. This involves extending established transition scenarios (e.g. the EC's 'Long term strategic vision' scenarios or the IEA’s net zero scenarios) to include alternative economic paradigms that are based on a wide spectrum of sound economic and social theories and have demonstrated potential to address global challenges. These paradigms introduce new policy options and instruments, which we aim to critically assess regarding their relevance, effectiveness, and potential trade-offs. The project will proceed through four main steps. First, we use state-of-the-art AI language tools and qualitative methods to map alternative paradigms and develop a paradigm taxonomy. Second, desired futures are extended into quantified transition scenarios using a set of 'beyond GDP' indicators to assess the potential for achieving a climate-neutral, just, and resilient society. Thirdly, stakeholder engagement through anticipatory systems mapping and social simulations will be used to co-create alternative futures and develop concrete policies that balance trade-offs, mitigate negative impacts, and enable dissemination and implementation. In addition, a large-scale survey of >18,000 citizens in Europe provides insights into public perception and acceptance of alternative paradigms and transition policies. Fourth, state-of-the-art modelling will be integrated to assess the economic, environmental, technological and social impacts of alternative paradigms and policies from a well-being perspective, including their environmental and social justice implications. Ultimately, MultiFutures provides policymakers with a comprehensive understanding of alternative paradigms and a broader range of policy options to accelerate progress towards a climate-neutral, just, and resilient society.