Whether digital administration, sustainable mobility, or public services – what constitutes a “smart city” varies depending on the approach. Cities, companies, and institutions set different priorities and have their own perspectives. That is why we are presenting a comprehensive definition of a smart city for this study, which brings together various concepts and creates a common framework.
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What will our future cities look like? Answers to this question are no longer a distant prospect, because the transformation of cities is already underway. The vision of a “smart city” is already taking shape in many places. Several key features form the framework: The concept describes a city that uses modern information and communication technologies (ICT) to optimize urban processes, improve quality of life for city dwellers, and manage resources more efficiently.
“Technological innovation is a tool for building a smart city.”
Dr. Georg Leuteritz, Head of Trends and Innovation, hannoverimpuls GmbH
But the concept of the smart city encompasses much more than just the introduction of individual technological solutions such as smart streetlights or self-driving cars. It is a complex, networked system in which various urban sectors such as transportation, energy supply, waste management and administration communicate and interact intelligently with one another.
“Smart City is not a topic that can be confined to one area. It is certainly a cross-cutting issue.”
Maral Koohestanian, Head of Smart City, Europe and Order Department, City of Wiesbaden
The goal of a smart city is to overcome urban challenges such as traffic congestion, high energy consumption, and environmental pollution and create a livable environment for city residents. And people are involved in the transformation process and help shape it.
By networking infrastructures and using real-time data, informed decisions can be made and processes optimized. However, implementing a smart city requires not only technological innovations, but also careful consideration of data protection and sustainable use of resources.
Core Components of a Smart City:
Energy and environment
A smart city relies on sustainable energy sources and optimizes its energy consumption. Smart power grids and the use of renewable forms of energy ensure a more efficient energy supply. At the same time, technologies such as smart lighting and intelligent waste management systems are used to conserve resources and reduce emissions. For example, urban lighting can be controlled by smart streetlights that only shine when they are needed, thus saving energy.
Transportation and mobility
Networked transportation systems optimize traffic flow. Autonomous cars, smart traffic lights and public transportation are designed to make transportation safer and more efficient. The goal is to avoid traffic jams and reduce CO2 emissions. One example is intelligent traffic management in large cities: Traffic lights react to traffic volumes in real time and dynamically direct traffic. In addition, autonomous vehicles and car-sharing services are increasingly being used to reduce private transport and improve air quality.
Public services and administration
Digital platforms are making administrative services more accessible and efficient. Administrative tasks can be completed online, from booking appointments to filing tax returns: Citizens can use e-government platforms to submit applications, book appointments, or make payments. This saves time and reduces costs.
Safety and healthcare
In smart cities, public safety is supported by modern technology. Intelligent surveillance technology increases safety through cameras that raise the alarm in emergencies. Sensors are also used to mea-sure pollutants. Healthcare can also be integrated into a smart city, with a telemedicine system enabling citizens to consult doctors or specialists directly from their homes.
“Ultimately, a smart city is a bit like a utility for citizens. Everything runs in the background and is perfectly coordinated.”
Dr. Robert Thomann, Managing Director, Smart City Mannheim GmbH
The development of a city into a smart city is largely based on the digitization of various sectors. This technological basis allows different areas to be connected and synergy effects to be exploited. The Internet of Things (IoT) also plays a decisive role in connecting the analog and digital worlds. But the concept involves more than just a “digital boost” for existing cities – it is an approach that uses technology and innovation to meet the urban challenges of the future.