• Where are we?
• Where do we want to go?
• How do we get there?

The 3H framework encourages reflection on where we are today, where we want to go, and how we can bridge the gap between the two.

Recently the Feeding Ourselves Community of Practice have adopted the Three Horizons (3H) framework to guide and deepen our conversations. Similar to Talanoa, the Three Horizons framework promotes long-term thinking by distinguishing between three phases: the current system (Horizon 1), the emerging future (Horizon 3), and the transition activities and innovations needed to enable a viable future (Horizon 2). 

The 3H framework encourages reflection on where we are today, where we want to go, and how we can bridge the gap between the two.

The strength of the Three Horizons framework lies in its simplicity and its ability to ignite meaningful conversations about present challenges, future aspirations, and the innovations needed to make the transition to a resilient and regenerative future. It emphasises that all three horizons exist in the present moment, providing valuable insights into the future through current behaviors and emerging trends.

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• H2 Negative refers to innovations that are captured by the existing business-as-usual system (H1), reinforcing the status quo. These innovations may be presented as progress but are ultimately used to maintain or prolong the current system, rather than challenging it or transforming it.
  
• H2 Positive, on the other hand, focuses on the transformational innovations, policies and game-changing solutions that enable the shift toward a more resilient and regenerative future. The goal is to focus on these H2 Positive innovations, supporting them to scale and accelerate the transformation toward the vision of Horizon 3

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Case Study – Use of Three Horizons in our Field 

FixOurFood is an ambitious research programme inspiring action across Yorkshire to co-create a regenerative food system. Underpinned by a robust evidence base, we are pioneering, envisioning, and stimulating respectful debate to drive transformation to ensure healthy people and a healthy planet. You can find out more on the website fixourfood.org 

Using the powerful Three Horizons futures process, FixOurFood captured 1400 insights from 113 different experts from 55 organisations through surveys and workshops about challenges in the present, desired future food systems and how transformation can be supported.

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