‘Building BRIDGES to a Biophilic Future: Reimagining Progress in Relationship with our Planet’

‘Building BRIDGES to a Biophilic Future: Reimagining Progress in Relationship with our Planet’ by Prof. Luci Attala, argues that the concept of "progress" must be urgently redefined beyond its current narrow focus on economic growth and technological innovation. In an era of poly-crises and inequality, a "biophilic" (life-loving) approach is needed, integrating wisdom from the humanities and Indigenous ontologies to ground progress in dignity and justice for people and planet. 

This thought piece advocates for a biophilic economy as a "grounded" alternative that supports nature, viewing ecosystems not as resources to be exploited but as partners in creating long-term value. This shifts the measure of prosperity from material wealth to the capacity to distribute, collaborate, and nurture. It maintains that true progress requires placing care and equity at the centre of thinking, for both humanity and all species. The intersection of futures literacy and the BRIDGES inclusive approach provides a model for crafting nature-focused solutions, promoting environmental equity, and moving towards a more just and regenerative future.

We are proud to announce the publication of this piece, featured this month on UNESCO’s Futures Literacy and Foresight Collection of Thought Pieces.

This collection features insightful essays from a variety of specialists who delve into the future trajectory of social and economic advancement. The thought pieces shared demonstrate the transformative potential of futures-oriented approaches across policymaking, education, cultural practices, and governance.

Since 2012, UNESCO's MOST Programme has promoted Futures Literacy and Foresight as essential skills for building inclusive, sustainable futures and navigating uncertainty.

Futures Literacy moves societies beyond reactive governance by enabling them to imagine diverse futures and understand how these visions influence current decisions. Foresight provides structured tools (like scenario-building) to anticipate emerging trends and develop adaptive, equitable policies. By adopting these perspective, we can transition from applying short-term fixes to implementing long-term solutions that genuinely safeguard the well-being of both current and future generations.

Prof. Luci Attala’s piece ‘Building BRIDGES to a Biophilic Future: Reimagining Progress in Relationship with our Planet’ can be accessed on UNESCO’s Futures Literacy and Foresight website.