Polycenters Scenario: technology for middle class

One prominent characteristic of the Polycenters Scenario is the networking of cities in regional associations. People have much greater control over municipal life: regions are deliberately promoted as counterweights to the big cities. Capital flows are regulated. Companies are successful if they adapt their products and market strategies to local conditions. If they succeed, they can enjoy a degree of stability in these locations. In turn, the people who work for them benefit from a fairly stable job market and thus from the opportunity to plan their lives on a long-term basis. As a consequence, building activity is extensive, but geared to cost-effective structures. High priority is given to saving energy and using solar power. High-tech products that enhance comfort and safety, or help to save time, are ubiquitous. The market for intelligent materials is large thanks to the buying power of a well-educated middle class, which plays the leading role in society.

Economic development is driven by the innovative capacity of businesses and scientific institutions. Life-long, independent and multimedia-based learning is common and supported by employers. On the other hand, communications technologies and virtual work processes enable most people to freely select their place of work and to set flexible work hours. The separation of work and recreation is less distinct. Work is largely project-oriented. Project teams are constantly regrouped, thus giving individuals more free time, which they can use, for example, to take extended leave and raise a child. Most city centers are off limits to personal vehicles and accessible only via public transportation systems. The car is increasingly replaced by flexible vehicle solutions, such as a “car on demand”. Hydrogen and fuel cells are starting to replace gas and diesel engines to drive vehicles.

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