Digital Twin Technology for Contested Landscapes

VR-Lab at NMBU organized during the summer of 2023 the first global workshop on "Digital Twin Technology for contested landscapes" which was held at Birzeit University in Palestine as part of the Twin Fjord project. Collaborating with Birzeit University's Architecture Engineering and Planning Department, the workshop brought together experts, academics, researchers, policymakers, planners and students to explore the potential of digital twin technology in addressing challenges unique to contested landscapes, with a specific focus on Palestine. Palestine is a region with a rich cultural and historical heritage and a complex relationship with its landscape due to ongoing political conflict, environmental degradation, urbanization, and limited resources. The workshop explored how advanced digital applications and digital twin technology could facilitate dialogue and decision-making processes in Palestine, taking into consideration the cultural, historical, and community factors that shape the landscape. The event witnessed active participation from various stakeholders, including governmental bodies, NGO’s, municipalities, universities, and international institutions.

The workshop featured a range of presentations from experts from different disciplines who brought diverse perspectives to explore the potential of digital twin technology including Jihad Kamel from BZU who discussed uncovering narratives through digital twin tech for preserving cultural heritage in Palestine. Ramzi Hassan from NMBU addressed community engagement and sustainable development in contested landscapes using digital twins. AbdalRahman Kittana from BZU explored the balance between preservation and innovation in Palestine's fictional city, Sham. Nadia Habash from the Engineering Association presented their digital services, while Mohammad Abu Hammad from UNESCO shared insights on merging technology and cultural heritage. Abed Badran from York University provided a thought-provoking discussion on the convergence of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the Internet of Things (IoT) within the realm of digital triplets. Andreas Amundsen from United Future Lab Norway briefly defined the complex world of digital twins. The stage was also set for an introduction to the Twin Fjord project by Dina Aspen from NTNU. This project, positioned as a participatory planning system, pioneers sustainable land management through the innovative prism of digital twin technology.

These presentations paved the way for engaging discussions that explored how digital tools can reveal historical stories and emphasized the value of involving communities in safeguarding cultural heritage. Exciting new concepts emerged, particularly concerning sustainable development and preserving cultural heritage for marginalized groups. The event also featured inspiring student projects that demonstrated how technology and cultural heritage intersect. The workshop generated valuable outcomes, including strengthened collaboration as experts, researchers, and students connected for potential future partnerships. Participants acquired a more informed understanding of digital twin technology's complexities and potentials, particularly in contested environments. The workshop's generated ideas are set to play a pivotal role in shaping joint initiatives that tackle local challenges through collective efforts.