Smart Cities

Can digital integration create better urban environments?

Smart cities utilise modern technology to collect data and information with the intention to create digital solutions to management and efficiency issues within an urban environment. To be classified as a smart city, there are five characteristics which must be met, being: smart healthcare, governance, transportation, security surveillance, and job opportunities. In addition, all other key infrastructure within the urban environment must be based around technology, in particular, data collection and communication. The concept aims to provide benefits to inhabitants and businesses through improving operations, easing communication, and generating economic growth.

How does the rise of smart cities relate to construction?

An industry which has thrived from traditional methods and relatively slow progress, must shift the reluctance for change to become progressive. The construction industry will play an integral role in the global transition to smart cities in order for nations to reap the benefits. Smart technology will inform the design and building process, to enhance the features and tailor to the needs of its future inhabitants. Additionally, there will be a significant difference in the maintenance of smart buildings compared to traditional builds. Smart buildings will be able to self-regulate and provide insights into what maintenance is needed – helping to streamline the process.

What are the multiple frameworks that support smart cities?

Integrating technology to establish a smart city requires multiple frameworks to ensure there is a clear focus to optimise the technology for good. These frameworks can be separated into five key categories being:

Technology: Combinations of advanced technologies work with a city’s existing and new infrastructure to increase our understanding of systems and identifying problems.

Human: The impact smart cities have on its inhabitants is vital – as the aim is to boost the overall quality of life. 

Institutional: Governments and other institutions are key players in utilising the information collected by smart technologies in order to enact positive change. 

Energy: Creating efficient solutions to energy intensive systems such as transportation and healthcare is a key concern for smart cities.

Data Management: Multiple data collection and management systems must be installed to ensure a smart city can accurately understand what issues people face.

What are the benefits of smart cities?

As the intention of smart cities is to create a more efficient urban environment, there are many benefits which the integration of these technologies create. Most notably, smart cities can improve quality of life and offer a more liveable environment. This can be achieved through enhanced safety measures, increased job opportunities, reduced cost of living, and improved healthcare. Smart cities also aim to increase connectedness through effective and efficient communication to address accessibility needs. Additionally, there are wider environmental benefits through tracking greenhouse gas emissions and providing solutions to lower them, particularly in the transport sector.

How have smart cities been criticised?

While there are many clear benefits to smart cities, there has also been criticisms as scepticism with any new technology is to be expected. There are concerns surrounding the anonymity of data collection, as privacy breaches are becoming a core worry for many. There are also fears about economic inequality, as technology has been a dividing factor in growth and is commonly a symbol of financial wealth. The unease arises when considering that economies could be pushed further apart. As wealthier cities could become wealthier with the integration of smart technology while causing more strain to developing cities and nations.

Unmanaged and ethically corrupt smart cities could lead to data breaches and economic disparity, which would achieve the opposite of what they intend to. However, smart cities do have great potential to ease common issues within urban environments and create a more stable world if fully considered and carefully