Hotter days, stronger winds, and heavier rains are making life more challenging. Smart cities leverage technology to address these issues and enhance our quality of life.
During my lecture ""Climate and Smart Cities: Where Technology Makes Cities Sustainable" organised in Kawasaki, I highlighted how these cities use tools like sensors, artificial intelligence, and clean energy to conserve water, reduce pollution, and manage traffic more effectively.
We explored examples from around the world where technology is making cities more sustainable. These case studies demonstrated how smart solutions can keep homes cool, streets clean, and floods under control. However, I emphasised that building smart cities is not without challenges. They can be expensive, and we must ensure that technologies are accessible to everyone, including the elderly. Protecting privacy is also critical to prevent the misuse of personal information.
The lecture underscored the need for cities to collaborate with local communities, using accessible technology to tackle climate and environmental challenges. By incorporating green spaces, such as parks and rooftop gardens, and implementing smart systems, cities can remain cool and clean.
