In conversation for a Green city: Cultural Significance of Urban Trees

We consider it essential to share knowledge about urban trees and to work closely with stakeholders beyond the scientific community. To engage the urban population and initiate dialogue with local residents, we use the Mobile Participation Lab “MobiLab” from the KIT Center Humans and Technology. In addition, we investigate the cultural ecosystem services of urban trees, such as aesthetic value, recreation and a sense of place, using surveys and Cognitive Affective Mapping (CAM). CAMs are visual representations of thoughts and emotions related to a specific topic. This method helps to systematically analyze complex opinions and emotional responses. 

At the end of the project, we will hold a workshop with representatives of the city administration, during which we will present and discuss the project results. The aim is to incorporate these findings into future urban planning processes, thereby promoting the sustainable development of our cities. This sub-project is a collaboration between the Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis (ITAS) and the Department of General Psychology at the University of Freiburg’s Institute of Psychology.