Leibniz Institute for Regional Development and Structural Planning (IRS)

Since 1995 the IRS based in Erkner close to Berlin. Pursuant to its statutes, its mission is to scientifically research difficulties and potentials for the development of cities and regions in national, international and especially in European context, while regarding civil social processes. Also considered in this aspect are the analyses of social and economic area complexity in connection with steering mechanisms, as well as the spacial importance of the formation of institutions and milieus. Through these activities the IRS develops fundamentals for political planning strategies (in research transfer and orientation form) and provides demand-orientated services.


Within "Loss of the Night", the IRS does research on the project "Artificial light and nocturnal landscapes in Berlin and Brandenburg since the 19th century: a cultural and environmental history perspective". By recording positive and negative images of nocturnal landscapes, the study aims to gain a more differentiated impression on the historical aspect of artificial light.

In collaboration with the ISR at the TU Berlin, it analyses what sort of interest for intense illumination and what level of awareness for difficulties of light pollution already exists among different social groups. In addition it analyses options upon they would be able to minimize light pollution within the frame of the project network and whether a readiness exists to put these into action. The subproject is called "From lighting to enlightenment?A socio-political analysis of the situation to reduce light pollution in Berlin-Brandenburg".


For the "Loss of the Night"- project website of the IRS click here.

Leader of subprojects at the IRS is Dr. Timothy Moss