What is it about?
Cities first emerged at key intersections along major trade routes, evolving into centers of culture, business, politics, work, and daily life. Today, they remain hubs of constant innovation and transformation from institutional to grassroots levels. Yet, urban life now stands on a new intersection: our planet can no longer sustain a lifestyle fueled by continuous growth, overconsumption, and human-centered thinking. It is often stated that the fight against climate change will be won or lost in cities. This struggle also extends to combating social inequalities and unjust urban policies. Achieving true sustainability demands radical change, touching all levels of society, but also patterns of thinking.
In this rapidly evolving urban landscape, understanding the intricate, interconnected nature of cities is more essential than ever. To achieve this, transdisciplinary knowledge-sharing and open dialogue across disciplines and sectors is crucial; to create resilient, equitable cities, we must step out of our professional silos and collaborate not only between different fields but also between various stakeholders, including the whole spectrum of life forms. Change can happen on many levels, from individual learning to participatory research and community-driven action, all targeted for the common good. Hence, alongside studying and discussing the urgent crises we face, we must also celebrate progress and small victories, spotlighting successful initiatives, and share best practices.
Why are we doing this?
Our mission for Tampere Urban Research Blog is to promote a dynamic dialogue on the complexities and opportunities within urban environments, fostering understanding of the complex systems shaped by environmental, social, economic, and cultural forces. By bringing together diverse perspectives from across Tampere University’s urban research community, we aim to make urban research accessible and relevant also beyond academia, sparking interest and engagement in the sustainable development of cities. Through this platform, we strive to promote an understanding of how sustainable cities can emerge through collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches, and invite everyone interested to contribute to the discussion on sustainable cities.
Who are the contributors?
The Tampere Urban Research Perspectives blog connects researchers, students, and the general public with the latest insights and developments in urban studies. Through our posts, we introduce key themes in urban research, share fresh perspectives, and showcase ongoing projects. In addition, we present thought-provoking researcher interviews and dialogues, cover recent dissertations, and report on inspiring events and study trips arranged at Tampere University by our active and vibrant urban research community.
The blog features contributions from urban researchers and students at Tampere University. We also welcome guest posts from visiting scholars and other collaborators. This diverse authorship ensures a rich set of viewpoints and expertise on urban issues. The blog is an union of three multidisciplinary urban research initiatives: Tampere Urban Research Network for Sustainability (TURNS), Sustainable Transformation of Urban Environments (STUE) and the international degree programme Sustainable Urban Development (SUD).
Join the Conversation!
Whether you’re a researcher engaged in the latest urban research projects at Tampere University, a student eager to delve into urban questions, or a curious reader interested in cities and sustainable urban transformation, this blog has something for you. We embrace both traditional and innovative forms of research and expression and encourage our writers to think outside of the box. We strive to make our content both informative and engaging, offering accessible, research-based insights into urban phenomena.
We would also like to invite you, dear reader, to also contribute to the blog by writing your thoughts in the comment box, sharing our posts in social media or submitting your text to the blog. Join us in reimagining our cities and creating visions for a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban world!
Anna Koskinen is the Editor of the Tampere Urban Research Perspectives blog and the producer of the TURNS research platform. With a focus on architecture, urban planning and design, and urban studies, Anna organizes and coordinates a diverse array of seminars, conferences, and courses throughout the year. Her work bridges academia and practice, fostering collaboration and dialogue on pressing urban challenges.
Riina Lundman is the Project Manager of Tampere Urban Research Network for Sustainability TURNS, a transdisciplinary research platform that brings together urban studies, transition studies, and sustainability science.