Currently, just over half of the world's population resides in cities. However, according to UN data, by 2050, it is anticipated that 70% of the global population will live in urban areas, presenting significant challenges regarding quality of life and sustainability.
In preparation for this scenario of mass urbanisation, major cities are transforming their infrastructure and services, leveraging tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data, among others, to collect and analyse data in real-time, thereby enabling more informed and precise decision-making.
What is the objective of these smart cities? To revolutionise urban life by enhancing service efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and promoting citizen engagement, thereby creating urban spaces that are not only more liveable but also more sustainable and resilient.
The path is not straightforward: cities face challenges such as insufficient connectivity, a lack of technological infrastructure, and the absence of robust regulatory frameworks.
Despite these hurdles, most cities in developed nations are increasingly investing in technology as a critical tool to achieve their economic, social, and environmental goals.
According to forecasts by consultancy firm Juniper Research, cost savings from smart city initiatives will reach $249 billion by 2028, representing a 158% increase from the $96 billion recorded in 2023.
These savings are primarily associated with reduced energy consumption and emissions resulting from the implementation of smart grid systems, as well as intelligent traffic and street lighting management.
The Pulse of Cities
The development of these smart cities encompasses several key areas essential for urban well-being.
In waste management, for example, the use of IoT sensors enables smart containers to report when they are full, alongside systems that automatically identify and separate waste. Consequently, collection routes are optimised, and operational costs are reduced.
In the energy sector, smart grids have revolutionised energy distribution, allowing the integration of renewable sources and the dynamic management of demand.
Transport is another critical area, where connected public transport systems utilise AI to adjust routes and schedules in real-time, reducing both waiting times and emissions. Cities are also investing in electric public transport systems, expanding cycle lane networks, and preparing for the advent of autonomous vehicles.
Security in smart cities has also advanced, thanks to surveillance cameras equipped with facial recognition and monitoring systems that not only help prevent crime but also enhance emergency response.
In the health sector, digital technologies have enabled the creation of connected health centres, where patient data is used to deliver faster and more accurate diagnoses.
Other sectors, such as commerce and education, have also benefited greatly from this digital revolution, with more accessible commercial areas and schools utilising digital tools to improve teaching and learning.
Evolution Comes from the East
Cities in developed countries have taken the lead in the race to become smart cities.
Shanghai, China’s most populous city, tops the latest global ranking by Juniper Research, which evaluates the impact of digital technologies such as AI and IoT on public services and infrastructure in major cities worldwide.
What has propelled Shanghai to become the smartest city? One of its strengths is the deployment of a cloud platform that provides access to over 1,000 digitised services for its population.
The platform connects 39 public agencies and has more than 14 million users who manage various procedures, including birth registrations, marriages, education, tourism, social security, transport, medical treatment, and legal services, among many others.
Shanghai has also achieved dual gigabit city status, with 99% fibre optic coverage and full 5G coverage in central areas.
The city has implemented various innovative initiatives, such as smart mobility platforms that integrate public transport, shared bicycles, and autonomous vehicles, which have reduced congestion and improved accessibility.
Additionally, the city boasts a network of urban sensors that monitor air quality, traffic, and energy consumption in real-time, allowing for immediate adjustments to enhance efficiency.
In the health sector, Shanghai’s hospitals have adopted advanced technologies to offer more accessible and personalised services, significantly raising the quality of medical care in the city.
An Intelligent Future That Poses Challenges
Despite advances, smart cities face significant challenges that must be addressed to ensure their long-term success.
Data infrastructure and connectivity are crucial for managing the vast volume of information generated by cities. However, a significant digital divide exists, preventing equal access to connectivity for all individuals.
According to the International Telecommunication Union, 33% of the world’s population, approximately 2.6 billion people, lack internet access due to economic inequalities and infrastructure deficiencies.
The regulatory framework also represents a substantial challenge for smart cities. While extensive data collection is essential for decision-making and optimising urban services, it also raises a critical concern: citizen privacy. Therefore, cities must implement clear and transparent regulations to protect data security without stifling innovation.
Another fundamental challenge is maintaining a balance between technological growth and sustainability, ensuring that urban development does not compromise the environment. The challenge lies in integrating technological solutions that not only enhance efficiency and quality of life but are also eco-friendly.
This involves developing green infrastructure, optimising the use of natural resources, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting the circular economy. Cities must move towards an intelligent future where caring for the planet is as much a priority as technological innovation.
The Citizen as Protagonist
This urban revolution is not just about technology and efficiency. At the heart of smart cities lies a new form of participatory governance, where the citizen's voice takes on unprecedented prominence.
Digital platforms and mobile applications are breaking down barriers between administrations and residents, enabling more direct participation in decision-making that affects the community.
The challenge now is to ensure that this transformation is inclusive and benefits all inhabitants, leaving no one behind on this journey towards the future of our cities.
stronger than one