To keep up with the modern world and ever-changing technology, the landscapes of cities are gradually transforming. As time progresses, more of the world’s population is living in urban environments and cities across the globe need to adapt to rapid growth and modern lifestyles by navigating the challenges and staying on top of advanced smart technologies. Implementing networks and strategies to improve public services, quality of life and sustainability for the city as a whole and those who live there, smart cities are the next generation of urban living. With most major cities across the world developing into smart cities and smaller destinations following suit, the world has an ease of convenience, all enhanced by and leveraging technology. The question is, what exactly is a smart city and how do smart cities work?
What is a Smart City?
A smart city is the concept of an urban area that uses information and communication technologies, data and innovative planning to improve the quality of life for its residents and workers. Designed to enhance daily living while promoting sustainability and efficiency, a smart city prioritises the well-being of its population by creating better living standards, offering more accessible services and encouraging environmental responsibility. Smart infrastructure is embedded into the very foundation of a city, making it more efficient and effective.
Smart cities focus on shaping urban environments to meet the challenges of contemporary life. These challenges include rapid population growth, climate change and the management of depleting resources with smart cities continuing to grow and expand to keep up. New strategies are constantly being developed, and networks are being introduced to align with the most advanced smart city technologies and adapt to changing urban living. In a smart city, infrastructure and services are carefully planned and managed to support economic growth, environmental sustainability and social inclusivity.Â
Smart cities are also locations that champion sustainability, ensuring that urban development aligns with long-term environmental goals. At their core, smart cities are about improving urban living through innovation and a commitment to creating environments where people can thrive and natural ecosystems are preserved for future generations. A smart city is one that supports innovation and adapts quickly to the ever-evolving world.Â
How Does a Smart City Work?
Smart cities use technology and leverage their data to operate. By introducing digital networks across the city that enhance sustainability and streamline city operations, smart cities create convenience and cleanliness for those who live there. Integrating digital infrastructure allows these areas to collect data and use it to their advantage when planning both short-term and long-term goals.Â
To do this, IoT (Internet of Things) devices such as cameras and sensors are implemented with the intention of monitoring and collecting data. These devices collect data on a massive scale and can analyse it instantaneously. IoT devices are connected to the cloud and can make real-time decisions with many systems working alongside AI. They effectively manage urban systems and city operations such as traffic management, street lighting and waste disposal. This technology and data collection allows cities to access information that has never been available and change the way things operate in response to the results. Real-time monitoring offers insights that can be actioned upon instantly, creating services and environments that are quick to adapt.Â
Smart cities rely on 5G connectivity, WiFi and GPS to operate effectively and efficiently. Smart cities therefore ensure all three are strong and reliable across the city which not only benefits smart infrastructure but also benefits residents and workers. In addition to 5G and GPS, smart cities offer free public WiFi, allowing citizens to not only connect with each other but stay connected and engage with city services. Mobile apps and digital platforms enable residents to interact with city services, receive updates and report issues.
The Goal of Smart Cities
Smart cities have many goals dependent on the systems and strategies they introduce. However, the overall aim is to maximise resources, reduce environmental impact and support economic development. By creating efficient, sustainable, and responsive solutions that improve residents’ quality of life, optimise resource use, and minimise carbon footprints, smart cities can be greener, safer, and simpler.Â
Sustainability is a key focus of smart cities and many systems in operation support sustainability in some way. However, networks are also implemented that directly work on environmental goals. Smart grids, renewable energy sources and efficient waste management systems help minimise carbon footprints and conserve resources. Areas further along in their smart city status are also introducing novel approaches to reduce carbon footprints. London has launched Green Lamp Posts throughout Belgravia, a world-first scheme designed to monitor air quality and featuring a green column of vegetation that promotes biodiversity in an urban environment.
Traffic management systems are a major element of most smart cities today. The goal is to make commuting and everyday travel convenient while supporting strategies to reduce carbon footprints. By making transportation more efficient, public services are enhanced and congestion is reduced. This supports the goals of working towards sustainability with the reliability of transportation and the introduction of congestion charges promoting the use of public transport. Ultimately, fewer cars are on the roads, minimising emissions that contribute negatively to the environment. For those who do drive, traffic management also enhances the ease of travel by monitoring congestion and road closures, diverting drivers when necessary to reduce travel times and lower emissions.
Quality of life is also important for smart cities. Many of the systems introduced are designed to either provide more convenience to residents or to create a cleaner environment. Sustainability goals work towards creating a cleaner, healthier environment for the next generation to inherit. Meanwhile, smart infrastructure that improves public services and boosts connectivity makes everyday living and tasks smoother, more convenient and stress-free. In addition, many of these systems also improve public safety by improving road conditions, reducing crime through surveillance and creating cleaner environments.