Digitalization and Adaptation, from a Regional Perspective – a Hungarian Case Study

Abstract

Currently, digital transition and innovation are significant dimensions of transition processes and development policies. These are becoming increasingly important as more diverse and complex social, economic and environmental problems and challenges emerge. The achievement of digital transition and the promotion of sustainable development are crucial elements of the European development policy. Digital transformation can bring new challenges and many new opportunities and solutions for individual stakeholders, companies, sectors, and regions. However, little is known about the interrelations between mobility, sustainability, digitalization and climate change, especially from a regional perspective. This research aims to explore ways to make the interrelations between sustainability, climate change and digitalization more tangible, measurable and traceable. To investigate this question, (i) the spatial interpretation of the interrelations between mobility, sustainability, digitalization and climate change was formulated, (ii) an indicator- based database was developed, and (iii) a methodology for assessing the digitalization and adaptation by the regional level was formulated. The analysis exploring the correlations between digitalization and adaptation was carried out in 2021 and focused on the level of districts (LAU 1 level in Hungary). Based on the digitalization and adaptation parameters, the Spatial Digitalization Index and the Spatial Adaptation Index were conceptualized. The dynamic regression analysis proved that digitalization is increasing at the LAU 1 in Hungary, and digitalization can support and strengthen adaptation to an increasing degree in different sectors such as transportation enhancing sustainability. The findings highlight the important role of different stakeholders and the challenge-based regional or local planning perspectives.