How can science support the sustainable reuse of conversion areas in metropolises?

Martin Gegner and Jonas Fahlbusch

This session will examine how different scientific disciplines – urban and regional planning, urban design, sociology, geography, interdisciplinary projects – can support, accompany or even initiate the transformation of former industrial and infrastructure areas into sustainable use. Case studies as well as theoretical and methodological studies are needed. The focus of the presentation will be on the question of the interaction between scientific analysis and practical implementation by non-scientific partners. The methodological and theoretical context should also be clearly highlighted in the case studies. The session will not only be interdisciplinary, but will also provide intercultural insights. Therefore, special attention will be paid to the transferability of solutions between different countries or even continents.

Presentations:

Floodplain ecologies for planetary health: collective learnings in conversion areas in the city of São Paulo
Laura Kemmer

How can science support the sustainable reuse of conversion areas in metropolises? The example of the EUREF Campus in Berlin
Jonas Fahlbusch and Martin Gegner

Real-World Laboratory for Water Security in the Pitimbu River Basin: Participatory Science and Adaptive Governance
Karinne Reis Deusdará-Leal, Jonathan da Silva Mota, Judith Johanna Hoelzemann, Osmar de Araújo Coelho Filho, Andrea Leme da Silva, Zoraide Souza Pessoa, Jose Luiz Attayde, Joana Darc Freire de Medeiros, Ana Paula Koury

Recognize and rehabit the iron port heritage of the city of Rosario
Celeste Garaffa

The Science of Planning and the Art of Negotiation: How to Support the Sustainable Reuse of Conversion Areas in Metropolises?
Ana Paula Koury, Luciano Abbamonte da Silva and Jessica Souza Fernandes

Free

Registration

Registrations must be made here.

Selection will be made in order of registration.

Registration will be open until the start of the activity, on site, as long as there are spaces available.

We thank everyone who participated and visited the 14th São Paulo International Architecture Biennial, from September 18 to October 19, 2025

NOTE OF CONDOLENCE

With deep sorrow, the Brazilian Institute of Architects – São Paulo Department (IABsp) mourns the passing of architect and landscape architect Kongjian Yu, a global leader in ecological urbanism, and the members of his team who accompanied him, tragically killed during the filming of a documentary. The institute is honored to have had him as a participant in the 14th São Paulo International Architecture Biennial, where his transformative vision strengthened the dialogue between global challenges and local realities. IABsp emphasizes that Yu's contribution, which transcends borders, will remain an inspiration for generations and expresses its condolences to China, to the families of all the deceased, to his friends, and to all those impacted by his genius and dedication. Read the full note here.