4EU+ JOINT EDUCATIONAL PROJECT COLLEGIO FUTURO COLLEGIO FUTURO JOURNAL
INCISIVE ASSESSMENTS OF CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
During Collegio futuro editions, students work in multidisciplinary groups and discuss solution approaches for urgent environmental problems. As a result of these discussions, they create policy briefs with the goal of presenting complex scientific matters in a concise and easily understandable way for a non-expert readers.
Policy brief 04/2026
Anchoring 30×30 in “Conservation Imperatives”
Securing the 1.22% to Prevent Global Mass Extinction
The 2022 adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) established the ambitious “30×30” target (Target 3), mandating the conservation of 30% of Earth’s surface by 2030. However, meeting this target is currently a “numbers game.” Without strategic prioritization, we risk protecting large, low-value areas that meet numerical goals while critical biodiversity vanishes...
Policy brief 03/2026
Safer Biosolids Use in Spanish Agriculture
The sustainable management of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) biosolids presents a significant opportunity for nutrient recovery and circular economy principles within European agriculture. Biosolids can serve as a valuable alternative to synthetic fertilizers, reducing reliance on finite resources and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. However, their use is not without potential risks ...
Policy brief 01/2026
Communicating the Energy Transition: Key Lessons from Wayúu Communities
Colombia’s La Guajira region has been identified as promising for renewable energy projects, most notably for providing an ideal space for the installation of wind turbines. However, the local Indigenous communities, the Wayúu, fear and protest against the disruption of their sacred lands and spiritual customs that are inherently linked to the land used.
This case reflects a broader global challenge in climate governance. Similar communication failures and power imbalances are evident in renewable energy projects involving Indigenous and local communities worldwide.
Policy brief 03/2025
Adaptation of Protected Historic Cities to Heat
Historic cities like Heidelberg face climate challenges from the Urban Heat Island effect and heat waves, which endanger health, productivity, and heritage. Targeted, non-invasive strategies could boost resilience while preserving historic character.
Policy brief 02/2025
Towards a Sustainable EU Aquaculture
Aquaculture is the most scalable method of fish production, and a pescetarian diet is the most climate-friendly option with animal protein. However, monoculture harms ecosystems through feed waste, increasing fish mortality. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) offers a more sustainable, multi-species approach, producing more protein with fewer environmental impacts. This policy brief recommends promoting IMTA in Europe by simplifying regulations, offering economic incentives, and supporting knowledge transfer.
Policy brief 01/2025
Every Ecosystem Needs Some Disturbance Regime
Disturbances like wildfires, floods, avalanches, and pest outbreaks are commonly viewed as disruptive forces, but in reality, they are vital to maintaining healthy ecosystems. These events promote biodiversity, facilitate nutrient cycling, and enhance ecosystem resilience ...
