The EU aims to cut net GHG emissions by ≥55% by 2030 and reach climate-neutrality by 2050. While the European Green Deal, Fit for 55, the Net-Zero Industry Act and the Circular Economy Action Plan have accelerated progress, gaps remain in policy options and in managing systemic trade-offs—partly because GDP still dominates how success is measured, sidelining well-being, equity and ecological limits. MultiFutures broadens the scope of policy action by developing and evaluating transition scenarios that embed alternative economic paradigms and beyond-GDP indicators. Overall objectives are to: (i) map and compare paradigms; (ii) co-create visions of sustainable and equitable futures with citizens, policymakers, businesses and researchers; (iii) design policy pathways capable of delivering those visions; and (iv) provide robust, model-based evidence of likely impacts in Europe and beyond. The pathway to impact proceeds in four steps: (1) paradigm mapping using AI-assisted and qualitative methods; (2) scenario building with beyond-GDP metrics; (3) stakeholder engagement, including a large citizen survey (>18,000) and workshops in and beyond the EU; and (4) integrated modelling and assessment linking economic, environmental, technological and social outcomes, with justice and equity lenses. Social sciences and humanities are central (critical discourse analysis, participatory design, survey research, feasibility assessment), ensuring policy relevance and societal legitimacy. Expected impacts include policy-ready recommendations that strengthen the EU’s ability to reach climate-neutrality while improving resilience, equity and well-being; openly shared outputs via the project’s online platform; and contributions to international assessments.
