The paper presents a framework for understanding and supporting efforts aimed at "responsible innovation," developed through work with a major research project on geoengineering funded by the UK Research Councils. The framework, which includes four integrated dimensions—anticipation, reflexivity, inclusion, and responsiveness—was designed to address the challenges of governing emerging science and innovation in contemporary democracies. The authors argue that this framework has broader application and relevance beyond the specific context of geoengineering research. They discuss the historical and theoretical background of responsible innovation, emphasizing the need for a more forward-looking and inclusive approach to governance. The paper also explores the practical application of the framework within the SPICE project, a geoengineering research initiative, and reflects on its implementation, impact, and legitimacy. The case study highlights the importance of integrating the four dimensions of responsible innovation and the need for institutional commitment to ensure responsiveness and address tensions between them.The paper presents a framework for understanding and supporting efforts aimed at "responsible innovation," developed through work with a major research project on geoengineering funded by the UK Research Councils. The framework, which includes four integrated dimensions—anticipation, reflexivity, inclusion, and responsiveness—was designed to address the challenges of governing emerging science and innovation in contemporary democracies. The authors argue that this framework has broader application and relevance beyond the specific context of geoengineering research. They discuss the historical and theoretical background of responsible innovation, emphasizing the need for a more forward-looking and inclusive approach to governance. The paper also explores the practical application of the framework within the SPICE project, a geoengineering research initiative, and reflects on its implementation, impact, and legitimacy. The case study highlights the importance of integrating the four dimensions of responsible innovation and the need for institutional commitment to ensure responsiveness and address tensions between them.