116 Experimental Models of Eco-Efficient Towns and Regions (Eco-Regions)

Background

 A theoretical framework of Eco-Regions will be developed and proposed for experimental implementation, with a special view to the interconnections between city and the countryside. The "biopolis" thinking of Patrick Geddes (1854-1932) will be applied and elaborated for the purpose.

Objectives

The aim of this project is to analyse whole regions - comprising rural villages, small towns as well as larger cities with their surroundings. Possibilities for increasing eco-efficiency in rural and urban communities as well as in their interaction will be explored.

A few cases of experimental and innovative housing, working/production and transport are analysed. The approach of this project is futures orientated, with the aim of providing best practices in eco-efficient development of regions. The framework of regional foresight will be applied.

Duration

Year 2006 (as continuation of a project carried out 2004-2005)

Organization of the research

The project theme is headed by Doctor Sirkka Heinonen, in co-operation with Research Scientist Minna Halonen, Visiting Research Trainee Lorenzo Daldoss and Senior Research Scientist Tuuli Järvi. The project team is supported by a supervising group consisting of high-level experts.

Publications

Heinonen, Sirkka, Daldoss, Lorenzo & Halonen, Minna (2005). Slow Housing - Competitive Edge for Innovative Living Environments. Presentation at 8th International Conference of Finland Futures Research Centre and Finland  Futures Academy  "Changing Foresight Practices in Regional Development  - Global Pressures and Regional Possibilities" June 7-9, 2006 Turku, Finland. 30 ppt slides.

For more information

Dr. Sirkka Heinonen, Docent in Futures Studies, Chief Research Scientist, VTT POB 1000, 02044 VTT, Finland, email: firstname.lastname@vtt.fi