A smart city means an intelligent city, but to achieve this status there are important issues to carefully consider – the first being security in terms of ICT infrastructures and control platforms, intelligent surveillance functions and analysis as well as communication and monitoring.
Another is the governance issue between central and local governments, city authorities and influencers cities and a third covers service issues to be realized for all city residents, visitors and commuters alike.
These are just some of the critical areas we explore in this issue, firstly taking a look at how smart cities begin with smart systems, working for the benefit of both residents and the environment. Electric grids, gas distribution systems, water distribution systems, public and private transportation systems, commercial buildings, hospitals, homes — which form the backbone of a city’s efficiency, livability, and sustainability, are discussed. In addition, the improvement and integration of these critical city systems — done in a step-by-step manner — are seen as the cornerstones to making a smart city a reality.
We also look at a community-centric approach to security in Erbil, Kurdistan and how this is a pivotal element in the government’s formula for development. A view follows on the UN-Habitat’s Global Network on Safer Cities role in boosting creativity within smart and secure cities to allow populations to see innovations and systems working for them in their own specific urban environment. Advanced architecture software, which makes buildings more energy-efficient through putting technology to better use is also explored.
In our sections on resources and smart services, we review a study on how a Swiss water engineering department is using a video management system equipped with surveillance technology to provide advanced water data regarding situation analysis and warning systems. There is also an overview of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study which evaluates the environmental advantages of reusable versus single-use shippers for pharmaceuticals.
Finally we examine how the EU is aiming for a significant cut in the amount of rubbish generated, through new European Commission-led waste prevention initiatives, better use of resources, and encouraging a shift to more sustainable consumption patterns.
Enjoy reading!
John Matthews,
Editorial Team