SPARK4B+ (Strengthening Pathways for Alternative Socio-Economic Paradigms and Governance Frameworks and Response-able Knowledge and Action for Biodiversity-Positive and Just Futures) is a Horizon Europe project that develops, tests, and disseminates alternative socio-economic paradigms and governance frameworks to accelerate the transition towards biodiversity-positive and just futures.
The current growth-oriented socio-economic paradigm continues to drive biodiversity loss, climate change, and inequality. Although alternative paradigms – such as degrowth, the wellbeing economy, and ecosystem-based governance – already exist, they remain fragmented, are rarely institutionalised, and are poorly understood in terms of their combined effects on the biodiversity–climate–equity nexus. Without credible visions of alternative futures, societal inertia persists, hindering meaningful change.
Working across six countries – Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Hungary, and Colombia – and seven sectors, including agriculture, forestry, water, finance, health, education, and urban development, SPARK4B+ combines qualitative methods (visioning, narratives, systems mapping, behavioural approaches, and arts-based methods) with quantitative modelling (socio-economic and ecological trade-off analysis), supported by co-creation and generative AI. Transformation Labs and Demonstration Intervention Cases in each country will develop and test pathways towards biodiversity-positive and just futures, supported by coalitions and champions.
The project develops innovative approaches such as SPARKBOX, a qualitative toolbox for future visioning and scenario-building, and a dedicated AI/VR toolbox that brings immersive technologies into stakeholder engagement. By combining participatory foresight, quantitative modelling, and creative communication, SPARK4B+ aims to make alternative socio-economic paradigms not only imaginable but actionable – equipping policymakers, businesses, civil society organisations, practitioners, and communities with tested tools, strategies, and networks for systemic transformation.
Ultimately, SPARK4B+ contributes to the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 by supporting the implementation of biodiversity, climate, and social policies through evidence, scenarios, and practical tools for a biodiversity-positive and just transition. SPARK4B+ is funded by the Horizon Europe programme under Grant Agreement No. 101291197.
GreenFormation leads the coalition-building and communication work in SPARK4B+, coordinates the Budapest Nature & Health Equity case study, and supports overall project coordination. Through its work with communities, champions, and policymakers, GreenFormation helps ensure that the project’s tools and insights reach and inspire diverse audiences.
