Envisioning Urban Transitions – Creative methods and virtual imaginative futures for real community empowerment and co‐learning for building sustainable and resilient cities

The long‐term goal in EU is to implement the energy-efficient and climate-resilient transition. However, on governmental, communal, and individual level, the most effective actions are often missed. We often lack the tools and communal know‐how to speed up the energy transition, even though many measures, policies and technical solutions exist. What is needed are ways to engage citizens in urban planning in such ways that the existing measures are more attractive, effective, and participatory. The main question is thus: how can we commonly discuss, envision, and realize sustainable, inclusive transitions?

About the Project

This project aims to develop and test creative techniques, uncover and utilize their potential; support municipalities and their professionals in gaining insight into citizen needs and co‐creating the urban sustainable transition by empowering inhabitants in decision making processes and strengthening responsible ownership for a realistic ‘greener’ and ‘resilient’ future.

The project conducts applied research in Latvia, Sweden and The Netherlands to identify and meet the needs and priorities of municipalities, communities and stakeholders. There are in total 6 working packages (WP) and Umeå University will lead WP4. This project focuses on collaboratively exploring creative imaginations using interactive media (emerging and playful technology such as VR/AR) and participatory design techniques for engaging communities and envisioning sustainable Urban Transitions.