Knowledge production and learning effects using the example of living labs in Halle (Saale) and Mannheim

Abstract

Rising average temperatures and the increased occurrence of heat islands increase the vulnerability of urban society in Halle (Saale) and Mannheim as well. Dealing with the associated challenges requires not only locally adapted strategies, but in particular an interdepartmental approach and the participatory involvement of those affected. Real laboratories in both cities open up the possibility of testing this in a transformative process. The aim here is, among other things, to learn with and from each other and to generate new knowledge to address the urgent issues. This article discusses the opportunities and challenges that real laboratories are confronted with in terms of knowledge already in the discovery phase and what needs to be taken into account to support this process in the best possible way.