Research areas at the ARL

The research framework, which is updated on a regular basis, sets out the scope for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration within the ARL. The current research concept (2023–2028 “Spatial Transformation in Times of Multiple Crises” DE only) was updated in 2025 as scheduled; see Updates (PDF EN). The specific research questions are defined within the Academy by members and contributors in a co-design process; the actual generation of knowledge takes place in the ARL’s working groups and forums.

The research concept also provides the substantive framework for the missions launched in 2025, which serve to strategically focus and consolidate activities aimed at addressing societal challenges and contribute to agenda-setting as well as increasing the visibility and impact of ARL’s findings.

Research Area I

Society and the Economy in Transition

How social, technological and economic changes have spatial implications.

This research area examines key developments such as digitalisation, post-growth, mobility, social inequalities and issues of spatial justice. Social and economic transformation processes have a direct impact on cities, regions and landscapes – and at the same time, spatial policy can help steer these developments towards more sustainable paths.

Examples of topics include:

• socio-spatial disparities between urban and rural areas,
• new forms of work and the economy,
• changing mobility and lifestyles,
• participation and involvement in transformation processes.

Research Area II

Protection and use of natural resources, energy transitions

How sustainability, climate action and resource conservation can be shaped spatially.

This research area focuses on key environmental challenges – from climate protection and climate adaptation to biodiversity and the energy transition. It examines conflicts, synergies and regulatory options between resource use and sustainability goals, thereby contributing directly to current debates in spatial science and planning.

Examples of topics include:

• securing land and open space,
• water and soil resources,
• climate-resilient spaces and infrastructure,
• planning responses to the energy transition.

Research Area III

Theories and Practice of Spatial Planning

How spatial planning works – conceptually, legally and in practice.

This interdisciplinary research area combines theoretical foundations with questions of planning practice. It examines how planning can be further developed in the context of new societal expectations, legal frameworks and changing cultures of participation. In doing so, it also considers international comparisons and historical developments in planning systems.

Examples of topics include:

• planning processes and their instruments,
• governance and participatory formats,
• legal frameworks,
• international planning cultures.

Research Area IV

Reflection on Spatial Research and Spatial Development

How the ARL, its knowledge and its activities – both in terms of expertise and institutional structure – are reflected upon.

This research area, which is also cross-cutting in nature, is dedicated to the meta-level of spatial research: the ARL’s own history, its understanding of science, its impacts and its role within the scientific system. It also encompasses the further development of knowledge transfer approaches, impact assessment, and research into knowledge production and knowledge circulation in inter- and transdisciplinary formats.

Examples of topics include:

• History and development of the ARL,
• Knowledge production between academia, planning practice and politics,
• Impact assessment and analysis,
• Reflection on spatial discourses in historical and contemporary contexts.

The research area provide scope for in-depth study, cross-cutting themes and targeted synergies – and thus form the basis for a coherent yet dynamic research framework.

How the research areas interact

All four research areas are closely interlinked:

• Research Area I and Research Area II address current social and environmental challenges.
• Research Area III reflects on and develops the theoretical, methodological and legal foundations necessary to address these challenges.
• Research Area IV creates a framework within which the ARL reflects on its own actions, knowledge processes and the impact of its work.

Overall, the research areas enable a systematic, flexible and long-term research agenda that addresses societal challenges and generates scientifically and practically relevant insights.