Building networks for sustainable transition of old industrial areas

Abstract

This article shows possibilities of sustainable transformation of old industrial areas. Based on findings of the research project "Grey goes Green -Transformation of Industrial Areas" with case studies in Germany we showcase that network building helps to overcome major challenges and enhances sustainable transition. The project analyses and supports the formation of networks as well as partnerships between municipalities and companies to identify essential success factors for implementing sustainable development of old industrial areas. Initial situationSince the 1980s, significant efforts have been made in urban planning to realise new industrial areas that meet higher ecological standards in Germany. However,

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“…Regional studies of a climate-neutral transition are essential due to place-specific impact of global climate change and greening of the economy as well as the pivotal role of subnational governments in enforcing sustainable policies (OECD 2020). Disproportionate sustainability challenges for regions with carbon-intensive industries has led to studies on the green transition in such disadvantageous areas as coal mining regions (EBRD 2020), old industrial areas (González-Eguino et al 2012;Schack et al 2021), regions in industrial transition (OECD 2019) and regions specialised in a dirty industry (Grillitsch, Hansen 2019). These publications, mostly based on innovation studies and evolutionary economic geography, address the prospects for overcoming path-dependency and avoiding lockins to ensure a just transition in these regions.…”

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