Inhaltszusammenfassung

In recent years, it has become evident that the private sector, real estate companies, and local authorities have gained increasing influence in shaping the dynamics of urban centers. Despite this trend, the urban activities, traditions, and practices driven by the true custodians of cities - their inhabitants - continue to thrive independently, without the need for formal agreements or organizations. A prominent example of this phenomenon is the "give-away" culture, where local residents dis...In recent years, it has become evident that the private sector, real estate companies, and local authorities have gained increasing influence in shaping the dynamics of urban centers. Despite this trend, the urban activities, traditions, and practices driven by the true custodians of cities - their inhabitants - continue to thrive independently, without the need for formal agreements or organizations. A prominent example of this phenomenon is the "give-away" culture, where local residents discreetly leave surplus or unused items near residential buildings, often in small containers or boxes, for passersby to freely take. As it is believed that give-away practices vary in their manifestations across numerous German cities, our study focuses on three specific cities: Dresden, a city in former East Germany experiencing a resurgence in popularity; Berlin, Germany's capital, known for its vibrant and sociable atmosphere; and Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate in West Germany, famous for its Roman history, its role as the birthplace of printing, and its prominent position along the Rhine. To gain a comprehensive understanding, we use multiple methods and data in a triangulation approach. Our research analyzes give-away practices in Dresden's Neustadt district using geospatial analyses and semi-structured interviews. Subsequently, we conduct extensive , long-term observations in Berlin's Neukölln district to explore give-away practices and the diverse motivations behind them. Lastly, interviews are held with local residents in Mainz Neustadt to assess their familiarity with and attitudes toward give-away practices. This interdisciplinary study reveals that give-away practices are embraced to varying degrees and for various reasons across these three distinct German cities. By employing a multi-faceted approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies, our research provides insights into give-away practices in Germany, shedding light on the intricate dynamics at the heart of this urban phenomenon.» weiterlesen» einklappen

Schlüsselwörter

• give-away practices
• urban neighbourhoods
• sustainable consumption
• informal sharing

Autoren

Klassifikation

DFG Fachgebiet:
3.45-02 - Humangeographie

DDC Sachgruppe:
Soziale Probleme, Sozialarbeit