The Public Sector
TU Wien Bibliothek
The Public Sector
TU Wien Bibliothek

Journal Article

Title Transdisciplinary research on virtual participation processes in Austrian mountain UNESCO Biosphere Reserves - Digitalisation for sustainable development as a relevant research field
Author Braun, Valerie ; Aichholzer, Georg ; Auinger, Monika ; Arnberger, Arne ; Eder, Renate ; Jungmeier, Michael ; Klenovec, Christine ; Pichler-Koban, Christina ; Rauch, Franz ; Rossmann, Dietmar ; Schaflechner, Markus ; Weiss, Andreas ; Wolf, Lisa
Published on 30 Jun 2022
Published by Der Öffentliche Sektor - The Public Sector
Published in Volume 48 • Issue 1 • 2022 , pages 9-16
AC AC16618322
DOI 10.34749/oes.2022.4625

Links

Download Transdisciplinary research on virtual participation processes in Austrian mountain UNESCO Biosphere Reserves - Digitalisation for sustainable development as a relevant research field [495.8 KB]

Abstract (English)

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves (BRs) are internationally recognized model regions for sustainable development and used to conducting participation processes. This research explored the need and research design options for multi-channel participation approaches including digital systems for Austrian BRs. With the support of an online survey and a two-day virtual workshop with people from the management and stakeholders of three Austrian BRs as well as researchers from different Austrian scientific institutes, traditional participation formats were discussed. This inter- and transdisciplinary approach indicated that Austrian BRs face difficulties to reach certain target groups using traditional participation formats. Participants agreed on the need to try new approaches and that the gradual introduction of digital transformation in rural areas is important. The study shows the great need for action and research in the field of e-participation to implement multi-channel participation systems with new online components. The role and effects of electronic support for civic participation and the effects on BR management and decision-making need to be evaluated, as well as the wider impacts on local democracy and sustainable development.

License

Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0