NEWS As remote work becomes the new norm, the countryside is being reshaped in unexpected ways. Researchers at Umeå University will study the so-called "Zoomtowns" to understand how emerging mobility patterns influence both communities and individual lifestyles. The project also highlights the challenges posed by the countryside’s "invisible" residents and the need for innovative solutions for sustainable development.
Zoomtowns are not just a trend – they challenge fundamental structures in our tax system and population statistics.
The Covid-19 pandemic triggered a digital revolution, opening the door to remote work on an unprecedented scale. For many, second homes and nature-rich environments became workplaces, leading to the emergence of "Zoomtowns" in rural areas. Professor Dieter K. Müller at Umeå University is heading a project to explore how these changes affect mobility, rural development, and future planning.
”Zoomtowns are not just a trend – they challenge fundamental structures in our tax system and population statistics. Understanding their impact on individuals and communities is crucial,” says Professor Dieter K. Müller.
Digital meeting.
ImageJohnér bildbyrå AB/Jens LindströmA central issue is that many remote workers, despite using local resources and contributing economically, remain invisible in population statistics. They often lead multilocal lives, combining several residences without registering in rural municipalities. This creates challenges for public services and local economies.
”We see that the challenges of multilocality, where people live and work across multiple locations, go beyond individual choices and require new approaches to resource planning and allocation,” says Roger Marjavaara, Senior Lecturer in Geography and one of the project's researchers.
The research team will analyse mobility patterns and their impact on local communities using advanced data analysis, including mobile phone data. They will also conduct interviews with municipal representatives to bring local perspectives into the analysis.
The goal of the project is not only to map the changes but also to provide concrete recommendations for future sustainable planning. The findings aim to guide municipalities and policymakers in addressing new mobility patterns in a fair and effective way.
”The countryside has a unique opportunity to redefine its role in an increasingly digital world. By understanding and supporting the development of Zoomtowns, we can create sustainable and attractive communities,” concludes Cenk Demiroglu, Associate Professor of Geography and the department's third researcher in the project.
Starting in January 2025, the project will run for three years and is expected to provide valuable insights into how the digital work revolution is shaping the future of rural areas.