Research Group Sustainable Economic Dynamics and Innovation

The research group investigates the role of economic patterns and dynamics for the transformative capacities of cities and regions. It is building upon findings about complex intra- and interregional interactions between economic sectors and about incentive mechanisms that determine sustainability-relevant actions of economic actors (e. g. households, companies, municipalities). Special interest is given to factors that determine sustainability-oriented innovations. The aim is to contribute to the development of policy instruments for spatial sustainability transformations through inter- and transdisciplinary cooperation. 

The research group works with a wide range of approaches, including economic-mathematical modelling, statistical and econometric analysis, surveys and qualitative analysis methods. We develop and use regional input-output models, network methods and computable general equilibrium (CGE) models to determine the effects of environmental shocks, structural changes and policies on local economies. We apply statistical and GIS analyses as well as case study evidence to determine causal relationships and intervention levers.

The core research questions are:

• What are the linkages between spatial-economic patterns and dynamics and the transformative capacities of cities and regions?
• How can economic incentives and mechanisms be designed and used to increase the transformative capacities of cities and regions and to direct innovation towards sustainability?