Multi-locality in rural areas

an underestimated phenomenon

authored by

Lena Greinke, Linda Lange

Abstract

Multi-locality–a lifestyle involving living in several places–is very diverse. Involving temporary presences and absences, it can impact local communities and the environment. This paper looks at the effects of multi-local lifestyles in three rural districts in Lower Saxony, Germany, evaluating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with multi-local residents, company representatives and officials. The methods are supplemented by visualizations and reflexive photography. Multi-locals can be seen as both an opportunity and a risk for civic involvement: multi-locality makes it possible to avoid relocation, but the limited periods of presence make it unlikely for multi-locals to become involved locally. Likewise, multi-locality impacts the environment, leading to an increasing volume of traffic and higher land consumption, even if it less significant than the impact of daily commuting.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Environmental Planning

Type

Article

Journal

Regional Studies, Regional Science

Volume

9

Pages

67-81

No. of pages

15

ISSN

2168-1376

Publication date

21.01.2022

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Geography, Planning and Development, Sociology and Political Science, Economics and Econometrics

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.1080/21681376.2021.2025417 (Access: Open)