How can AI and digital innovation help shape more sustainable futures, and what governance challenges do they create along the way?
On 23 October 2026, scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and societal stakeholders came together to explore the opportunities, dilemmas, and emerging governance models at the intersection of digital transformation and sustainability transitions.
As part of the STRATEGIES Horizon Europe project, Joost Raessens presented two Dutch virtual reality projects: SpaceBuzz and Our Future on Earth. These projects allow schoolchildren and adults, respectively, to experience what it is like to look back at Earth from the perspective of an astronaut. Participants experience what is known as the “overview effect”, which is thought to foster climate awareness and encourage sustainable behaviour.
Building on his research into the design patterns of both experiences (Step 1, see https://www.strategieshorizon.eu/research/a-view-of-the-pale-blue-dot), he introduced a Hybrid Experience Model to help designers create more effective VR-based educational experiences (Step 2).
More information:
Date and time: 23 October 2026, 13.00-17.00
Place: Booth Hall. Utrecht University Library Science Park
Language: English