Smart solutions have taken over our reality and are still entering the next levels. Modern information and communication technologies set a visible trend in the development of cities. This does not surprise anyone. When used effectively, smart solutions can increase the efficiency of urban infrastructure and, as a result, significantly improve the quality of life of city residents.
What exactly is a smart city? What areas of its functioning can be improved by cities thanks to introducing modern technological solutions? Read our summary and see that the smart concept is the future toward which every city is heading.
What is a smart city?
The idea of a smart city refers to the development of cities of various sizes using modern digital solutions. The basis is the incorporation of the city’s infrastructure into the Internet of Things. In practice, this means implementing electronic systems, networks of sensors, cameras, and radars that collect data from the entire city.
Technological solutions that enable the analysis of collected data are an essential element. Hence, it is a simple step towards improving the processes taking place in the city every day.
What is ISO 37120 about?
The concept of a smart city is closely related to the ISO 37120 standard – “Sustainable social development – Indicators of urban services and quality of life” – developed by the World Urban Data Council. The standard is a set of 17 categories of indicators used to assess the development of the city on various levels, including economy, environment, education, transport, or energy.
At the moment, dozens of cities around the world, including several in Poland, have obtained the ISO 37120 certificate. This number is consistently growing – the title of the smart city means prestige and proves that the people managing the city care about shaping a pro-ecological space that is friendly to residents in many aspects.
Why is life better in a smart city?
In the context of smart cities, it is said that their measure is the level of satisfaction of residents. It’s true – the benefits of smart technologies make the lives of residents more comfortable. However, that’s not all. A Smart city is much more than an electronic board at the bus stop informing about the 2-minute delay of the bus.
Thanks to the implementation of the smart city concept, not only residents but also city managers and local businesses can benefit.
Check which areas will be improved.
Public transport and traffic management
Modern technologies save residents time needed to move around the city and increase travel comfort. This is achieved by, among others: intelligent pedestrian crossings, applications that allow you to view the current traffic volume, fill parking lots, or plan the most optimal route.
The smoothness of traffic is ensured by intelligent transport systems, e.g. traffic lights, which control the movement of vehicles depending on traffic intensity or current weather conditions.
Environment
A smart city consciously cares about the environment. Air quality measured by sensors that automatically send alerts when the level of harmful substances (e.g. smog particles) is too high can be indicated as a flagship indicator.
In addition to air monitoring, modern technologies can also control the quality of soil, the degree of its hydration and indicate potential fire hazard zones in forests.
Health
Concern for the environment directly translates into better well-being of residents. Green areas, air and water quality control are examples of the relationship between smart technology and the health of smart city residents.
Energy saving
New technologies can effectively reduce energy consumption, e.g. thanks to remote management of urban lighting and adaptation to the current needs of residents. What could be the effect of this? Up to 30% lower city lighting bills. This smart city indicator also includes the intensification of the use of renewable energy sources.
Efficient waste management
It would seem that the relationship between modern technology and garbage collection is distant. Not in a smart city. Optimizing the passage of garbage trucks and reducing the costs associated with it may be possible thanks to sensors placed in garbage bins. Information about their filling will be collected in the system.
Benefits for local business
Modern technologies and access to data translate into faster administrative decisions on the part of the city and the ability to accurately adjust services to current needs. The smart city is a part of the agreement and cooperation between the city and business.
Modern city management
A smart city is managed more efficiently and effectively. The basis is access to data that enables quick reaction and making the right decisions. Focusing the development of the city on modern technologies is also a symbol of growth and openness – both to relations with residents and local entrepreneurs, as well as other cities and investors.
Do you have any questions about smart technologies that we can implement in your city? Feel free to contact us.
