display
Berlin (dpa) - Projects start in the courtyard instead of in the skyscraper: According to a study, the fact that people get used to video conferences and mobile work in the Corona crisis harbors new opportunities for small communities.
"Life in the country is becoming a real alternative for many people," said Catherina Hinz, head of the Berlin Institute for Population and Development, on Wednesday.
For some communities this is an opportunity to win back people.
Together with the Wüstenrot Foundation, the institute examined digitally supported workplaces in rural areas, including shared offices, new living concepts, young digital companies and cultural initiatives.
Result: Although they revitalize the communities, large numbers of moves from the cities to the countryside are still a long time coming.
However, a trend reversal has become more likely, said Hinz - because the presence culture in companies is waning.
The study gives examples: In Ballenstädt in Saxony-Anhalt, an estate became a think tank.
Homberg in Northern Hesse invites 20 digital workers and creative people to test country life for a few months.
Wiesenburg in Brandenburg is planning a “Ko-Dorf” - a new district with small houses but large common rooms, also for working.
According to the study, 56 such projects show how rural life is changing.
display
"Digitization can act as a moving helper," said co-author Manuel Slupina.
In many cases, however, there was still a lack of powerful internet connections.
But a broadband cable is not enough.
Communities must also be easily accessible, have good childcare offers and support creative people.
Where there are already residential projects and creative spaces, it would be easier for latecomers.
© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210421-99-293522 / 4
Press release
study