How can science centres help shape a future where everyone can flourish? At Ecsite 2026, hosted by Universeum in Gothenburg, a session by RISE/FL4ALL on “Science Centers for the Future” explored an expanded role for science centres as partners in societal transformation.
The session connected science engagement with human needs, climate action and the emerging post-SDG agenda. It presented a shift towards innovation ecosystems that enable healthier, more meaningful and sustainable lives, placing science centres in a position to inspire and support long-term change.
Brain science and artificial intelligence were central themes. The presentation examined how AI can strengthen or undermine cognition, emotional development and ethical reasoning, highlighting opportunities for science centres to cultivate flourishing minds and respond to mental pollution.
Using Universeum as an illustrative case, the presentation introduced three levels of potential impact: immediate benefits for visitors, activities and projects initiated by visitors, and wider changes as projects scale into institutions and communities. Flourishing Life-Years were explored as a way to assess these contributions, with illustrative scenarios showing why impact assessment should extend beyond attendance and the duration of a visit.
Proposed next steps included:
- A joint science-centre declaration at COP31.
- Cases and an action plan connected to the forthcoming IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities.
- Collaboration through 2027–2030 to help shape the post-SDG agenda.
The session invited participants to consider science centres as part of a lifelong journey of learning, participation and human flourishing, with visitors becoming collaborators in creating a better future.