Vacancies represent both a challenge and potential for cities, depending on various factors such as their location within the urban context. This panel focuses on vacancy in the ground floor zone. The usage, non-usage, as well as the misusage of ground floor spaces directly contribute to the vitality of neighbourhoods. Thus, viably used ground floor spaces are integral for the implementation of planning concepts like the 15-minute city. On the one hand, property owners are key stakeholders in the activation of vacant spaces and the future-oriented transformation of the ground floor zone. On the other hand, new user groups emerge due to societal shifts such as the declining importance of (large) physical retail spaces. Micro-enterprises, associations, cultural actors and local initiatives are becoming increasingly prevalent. As recent surveys in Vienna and Graz show, they urgently need (affordable) space. Some of their usage models (e. g. cooperatively used spaces) differ from the traditional ground floor usages, which poses further challenges (e. g. subleasing, funding schemes excluding specific user groups). Developing strategies for dealing with the ground floor zone is therefore an essential challenge that urban planners have to face in terms of working towards future-oriented neighbourhoods. This session invites contributions dealing with ground floor vacancy especially within (but not limited to) the following topics: - Funding, instruments, processes and specific measures that enable structural changes / paradigm shifts in dealing with vacancy on the ground floor - Availability of spaces in the ground floor zone - Affordability of spaces in the ground floor zone (high rental and activation costs vs. low financial resources on the user side) - Dealing with ground floor vacancy in different spatial contexts (international examples) - Misusage, market-driven usage, gentrification vs. usage which generates positive impacts on neighbourhoods - Implementing socially beneficial projects - instruments, processes, measures or funding to enable community / non-profit purposes - Contribution of low-threshold “quick wins” (e. g. temporary usage) towards the transition into long-term tenancy

The session addresses the pressing issues cities face in navigating complex and interconnected crises. Urban areas are increasingly called upon to provide sustainable and inclusive solutions, from housing affordability and social inequality to climate change and migration. This session will address challenges such as the commodification of housing, affordability issues and resulting phenomena such as gentrification, touristification and homelessness. Innovative approaches to urban planning, policy-making and housing construction that balance environmental, economic and social needs will be explored. Interdisciplinary research and case studies will identify challenges and strategies to promote resilience, equity and sustainability in the urban environment. Contributions that address the broader implications of urban change in response to global and local challenges are welcome.

Social inequalities permeate all areas of society. The approach of "Caring Communities" aims to build caring networks and promote opportunities for social inclusion with a strong involvement of civil society. By emphasizing the aspect of “caring”, the focus lies particularly on vulnerable people and groups. Their needs become visible. Activities, measures and offers are developed together with them and with people from their environments. In this way, for example, current social phenomena such as loneliness can be counteracted or projects like “Dementia-Friendly Regions” help to destigmatize, to raise awareness and to support growing groups that are today mostly invisible in cities and regions. In this the panel, different thematic focuses of the approach will be illustrated using practical examples. At the same time, we will discuss on a conceptual level how “Caring Communities” can contribute to Caring and Sustainable Cities.

The session explores the complex interplay between tourism and urban transformation in shaping contemporary places. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, it examines how placemaking practices are intertwined with sustainable urban development, addressing challenges such as social inclusion, cultural preservation and environmental impact. Bringing together researchers, policy-makers and practitioners, the session highlights innovative approaches to managing conflicting interests and fostering synergies between tourism and urban planning. We are looking for case studies from different urban contexts that provide practical insights into balancing global trends with local needs, highlighting collaborative strategies for resilient and inclusive placemaking and related challenges.

The session explores forward-thinking strategies for integrating tourism into sustainable urban development. As cities face increasing pressures from globalization, climate change, and socio-economic challenges, tourism must evolve to align with the goals of resilient and inclusive urban futures. This session invites discussions on innovative pathways that reimagine the role of tourism in shaping cities, from leveraging technology and data-driven planning to promoting community-driven initiatives and green infrastructure. Topics include smart tourism, adaptive reuse of urban spaces, and participatory approaches that balance the needs of residents, visitors, and ecosystems. Case studies and visionary frameworks will provide practical insights into creating synergistic relationships between tourism and urban development, offering actionable strategies for cities to thrive in a rapidly changing world.