Research projects

The grand societal challenges of sustainable transitions are decided in cities. In urban planning terms, the 15-Minute-City concept is most promising for fostering a sustainable urban transition in European Cities. In the discussion about climate-friendly living, the focus is also shifting to urban mobility and active mobility, and alternative forms of mobility besides the private car are being considered as a basis for urban planning, for example public transport or, in particular, walking. The idea of a 15-Minute-City has established itself as a model, in which all facilities for everyday life should always be no more than 15 minutes away from places of residence in the city. Walking in particular, but also cycling and the use of public transport, play a major role. This allows people to participate fully in public life without a private car. In view of the diversity and size of urban districts, the "AccessCity4All" project focuses on "15-minute neighbourhoods", which are characterized by their own demographic and cultural character and can ideally serve the individual needs of different population groups from outskirts to city centres.

In view of the diversity of neighbourhoods, AccessCity4All has set itself the goal of further developing the concept of a 15-Minute-City through empirical research. It aims at providing cities with opportunities to support the transformation to active mobility for all population groups. To achieve this goal, a mix-method-approach is used in all cooperating cities and regions (Vienna, Münster, Groningen, Lisbon and Ankara) to calculate the general accessibility quality of the cities as well as asking citizens about their perceptions, accessibilities and mobility behaviour in a public participatory GIS survey. City-wide accessibility calculations are carried out as part of Urban Living Labs (ULLs), walk-along interviews are conducted with residents and stakeholder & citizens workshops are held. The discussions and close exchange with local actors and citizens will complement these methods and will give insights into characteristics of each city. The aim is to provide cities with options to support the transformation to active mobility for all population groups.