A transdisciplinary approach
Our transdisciplinary team is currently focusing on researching and communicating the historical and political factors that have shaped the present state of mobility planning in Saarland, as well as the effects such a system has on the everyday lives of its residents. This focus was developed on the basis of current data, which show that Saarland has the highest motorway density and the highest private car density of all German federal states. Drawing on regional and urban history, video and photographic archives, and field research, we analyze the broader context in order to better understand our surroundings from multiple perspectives.
The aim is to provide a historical overview spanning from 1945 to the present—ranging from the post-war reconstruction period and the era of mass motorization to the current challenges of the mobility transition. This transdisciplinary research not only examines infrastructure, but also addresses the social and symbolic meanings of mobility. Methodologically, we combine traditional research and interviews with participatory formats such as mapping workshops and sound recordings.
As we advance this thematic study, we also develop new ways of communicating research findings and data, with the goal of stimulating constructive debate and broadening perspectives on the current mobility situation. In this way, we seek to analyze existing realities and bring scientific research into the public sphere, fostering a participatory communication process around the current state of mobility and potential pathways for change.
