Lessons Learned: Emerging Technologies and Urban Sustainability Strategies

Today, several emerging trends are shaping the future of cities in terms of climate, economics, resources, and population growth. Rapid population growth has generated challenges in this context, such as efficiently managing natural resources, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring a sustainable quality of life for urban dwellers. In response to these challenges, emerging technologies have emerged as essential tools for transforming our cities into smart and sustainable environments. Throughout my academic and professional career, I have had the opportunity to research and participate in projects exploring various facets of smart and sustainable urbanism. My experiences in international seminars and papers, such as those presented at the innovation and sustainability congresses, have been pivotal in understanding and promoting advanced technologies in urban planning and management.

In events such as the IX National Innovation Congress with the University of Guanajuato in Mexico, Emerging Technologies Applied to Urban Sustainability with UNIBAS in Matera, Italy, Building Energy Efficiency Material Life Cycle and Green Certifications, and City Management Intelligent Systems for Data-Based with the University San Gregorio de Portoviejo in Ecuador, I have participated as a speaker, having the opportunity to impart my knowledge and lessons learned to students from these universities.

Origins and Evolution of the Smart City

The concept of smart cities arises from technological evolution and urbanization. Rapid urban growth has posed challenges to sustainability and quality of life in recent decades. In the 1970s, urban informatics began with computers to manage municipal services. In the 1990s, the expansion of the Internet introduced the digital city, a precursor to the smart city, focused on providing access to municipal information. In the early 21st century, technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics and cloud computing make cities more interactive and responsive to citizens’ needs. These developments are not just transforming traffic management, resource efficiency, and emergency services, but they are also encouraging citizen participation. In this narrative, your role, our esteemed audience, is crucial and valued. Your understanding and engagement with these technologies will drive the future of smart cities.

Digital Interconnection as the Basis of the Smart City

Digitalization has facilitated the transformation of traditional cities into smart cities with advanced infrastructure and connectivity. Digital interconnectedness is essential for this development. An efficient data infrastructure collects and analyses real-time information through sensors and IoT systems. Digital platforms integrate municipal services, improving resource management and citizen access. M2M communication enables service automation, while robust cybersecurity protects data. This interconnectedness optimizes urban management and empowers residents, promoting an adaptive, sustainable, and human-centered urban environment.

Smart cities rely on advanced technology, integrated policies, and collaboration between diverse actors, from local governments to communities and private companies, including academia. In this article, I will share my experiences and learnings in emerging technologies for the development of intelligent and sustainable cities, exploring how these are shaped by technological innovation. Through concrete examples and personal reflections, I hope to provide an inspiring and practical insight into the transformative potential of intelligent cities, highlighting how integrating technology and ecology can lead to more harmonious and sustainable development. In addition, I offer the reader the services of Novamanto’s Strategic Consultancy Services in Technological Urbanism to support the implementation of innovative and sustainable solutions in urban environments.

Integration of Key Dimensions in Smart Cities

The technological approach to intelligent city design spans multiple dimensions, from implementing energy-efficient infrastructures to integrating urban data management systems. In my research, I have collaborated on projects such as the digital prototyping of biomaterials for sustainable construction in fragile environments, developed applied research for urban metabolism models that assess the environmental impact of human settlements, and experimented with three-dimensional modeling at the urban scale to improve the management and conservation of built heritage. These projects highlight the importance of taking a holistic view that combines technological innovation with principles of sustainability and resilience. Some of these dimensions are presented below.

Smart Cities and Climate Change

Emerging technology is “a new tool with promising potential.” Defined according to the field in which it is analyzed, its use will benefit many sectors of society. Other essential characteristics of an emerging technology are its radical novelty, relatively rapid growth, consistency, and high impact (G. Veletsianos; B.R. Martin; D. Rotolo; D. Hicks and B. R. Martin).

Figure 2. Smart Cities and Climate Change Statistics

Source: Own elaboration with different sources (IEA, OECD, Energy Transition)

  • Blue bars: Represent the percentage of renewable energy use in each city.
  • Green line with dots: Represents the percentage of urban green spaces in each city.

Intelligent and sustainable cities seek to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change by using advanced technologies to improve resource efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint. This includes implementing advanced systems for environmental monitoring, waste management, water conservation, and optimizing energy use. For example, sensors and data analytics can help anticipate and manage risks associated with extreme weather events, improving the city’s response capacity. The graph above allows for a visual comparison of the use of renewable energy and the amount of green space in the selected cities, showing how different cities are implementing strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.  

Energetic Transition

In the framework of smart cities, energy transition refers to the shift from fossil fuel-based energy sources to renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and others. Smart cities encourage the construction of efficient energy infrastructures and integrate technologies, such as smart grids, that allow for more efficient and flexible management of energy supply and demand. A crucial aspect of the energy transition is the efficient use of materials and the implementation of advanced technologies in the construction and operation of buildings. Below, we present the ranking of cities that are leading this initiative:

Figure 3. Energy Efficiency Programs (%)

Source: Own elaboration with different sources (IEA, OECD, Energy Transition)

According to the graph, San Francisco stands out as a leader in the energy transition, showing high levels of renewable energy use, smart grid deployment, energy storage capacity, and energy efficiency programs. Paris and Berlin also show significant commitment to the energy transition, although to a lesser extent than San Francisco. Amsterdam and Tokyo have areas of opportunity for improvement, especially in using renewable energy and implementing energy efficiency programs. This diversity in approaches reflects how each city is progressing toward energy sustainability, adopting diverse strategies and technologies to improve its energy infrastructure and reduce its carbon footprint. 

Using sustainable and energy-efficient materials, such as advanced thermal insulation and recycled building materials, can significantly reduce energy demand. In addition, evolving software and predictive models supported by artificial intelligence (AI) can optimize energy consumption. These models can forecast energy needs and automatically adjust resource use to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. For example, integrating energy management systems in intelligent buildings, which use AI to analyze real-time data on energy consumption, allows heating, cooling, and lighting to be automatically adjusted to improve efficiency. Using thermal simulations and material flow analysis also helps identify areas for improvement and design solutions that optimize the use of resources. Tools such as Design Builder and other energy simulation platforms are fundamental to developing these strategies, providing a detailed understanding of the energy performance of buildings.

Figure 4. Waste Reduction Programs (%)

Source: Own elaboration with different sources (IEA, OECD, Energy Transition)

San Francisco stands out as a leader in all aspects of using sustainable and recycled materials, green building certifications, and waste reduction programs, reflecting a solid commitment to sustainability in using materials. Paris and Amsterdam also show significant commitment, although to a lesser extent than San Francisco. Berlin and Tokyo have areas of opportunity for improvement, especially in obtaining green building certifications and the use of recycled materials. This diversity in approaches reflects how each city is progressing on its path to sustainability through using greener materials and implementing sustainable building practices.

Regenerative Economics

The regenerative economy in intelligent cities focuses on economic systems that restore and regenerate natural resources and ecosystems, seeking to impact the environment positively. A key component is the production of biomaterials derived from renewable biological resources, which can transform construction and manufacturing towards more sustainable practices.

The data visualization reveals that Singapore leads in the smart city index with 91.6. It is also noted for its significant investment in smart technologies (USD 1.9 billion), albeit with fewer regenerative economy initiatives (10).

Figure 5. Green Job Creation

Source: Own elaboration with different sources (IEA, OECD, Energy Transition)

Despite having a lower index (86.8), Tokyo shows the highest commitment to 25 regenerative initiatives and the highest investment in intelligent technologies (USD 3.0 billion). With an index of 87.4, New York excels in green job creation (45,000), highlighting its focus on job sustainability. Amsterdam and Barcelona, although with lower investment in intelligent technologies (USD 1.2 and 1.1 billion respectively), remain vital participants in the transition to sustainable practices, with a notable focus on green job creation and the implementation of regenerative initiatives. This approach to diversity shows how each city uses different strategies to move towards sustainability and economic regeneration. 

The success of the regenerative economy depends on effective cross-sector collaboration, with universities providing research expertise and industries providing resources for production and marketing. Integrating these elements into intelligent city planning optimizes resource use and drives more sustainable and equitable urban development.

How are these dimensions integrated into the professional and academic experience?

Throughout my academic and professional career, I have had the opportunity to participate in various projects that have explored the multiple facets of urban sustainability and emerging technologies. From the development of Integrated Citizen Security Centers (SIS-ECU 911), a Warehouse built in 7 cities in Ecuador, to the analysis of urban metabolism in the Galapagos and 3D urban data modeling in Matera, each project has been an invaluable learning experience.

Adaptation and Mitigation Technologies in Matera: The Role of 3D Urban Models

In Matera, the project “Adaptive Microcity: Digital Twin Experimentation,” developed at the University of Basilicata (UNIBAS), is a Research Fellow experimentation that effectively contributes to climate change mitigation strategies and addresses the challenges imposed by Urban Heat Islands (UHI) on the built architectural heritage. UHIs are urban areas that experience significantly higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activity and landscape modification. Using 3D urban modeling technology with laser scanning, three-dimensional surveys form the fundamental basis for creating virtual models. Integrating remote sensors, such as weather stations, satellite imagery, and remote cameras, enables real-time data collection.

These models not only facilitate the continuous monitoring of the state of structures but also, by integrating artificial intelligence algorithms, allow different climate scenarios to be simulated to understand how they would respond to extreme variations in the urban environment. These simulations are crucial to designing adaptation strategies that minimize the impact of UCIs and strengthen the resilience of architectural heritage to extreme weather events, allowing urban managers to quickly detect and respond to significant changes in the environment that could deteriorate historic structures.

Another technology that could complement these efforts is ShadeMap, an advanced spatial analysis tool that offers multiple benefits in studying Urban Heat Islands (UHI). ShadeMap provides real-time data on a city’s thermal conditions, vital for heatwave emergency management and informed decision-making in real-time. Integrating ShadeMap into an integrated analysis ontology for ICU detection could significantly improve the analysis results and understanding of the pressures of the phenomenon, allowing for more effective urban policies for microclimate improvement in the city. The following image shows a real-time reading of the historic center of Matera. 

This proactive approach helps prevent damage and informs urban planning, optimizing resource management and implementing interventions that preserve Matera’s historical value while adapting to new climatic realities. In addition, it effectively addresses the challenges associated with urbanization and climate change.

Handheld lasers are portable devices that one person can carry and operate. They can capture 3D data in small or hard-to-reach areas or complex structures. Handheld scanners typically use a combination of laser scanning and simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) techniques to create a three-dimensional representation of the environment.

Figure 6. 3D Urban Model, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Matera

Source: Own elaboration

Energy Transition in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos: Urban Metabolism and Advanced Technologies

The concept of urban metabolism is essential for understanding and improving the sustainability of cities, as it analyses the flows of energy and materials within an urban environment, allowing areas for improvement and optimization to be identified. Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, has been the case study for my doctoral thesis; its relevance due to its status as a protected island territory and its dependence on imported resources provides an overview of the analysis of this phenomenon. Puerto Ayora faces unique challenges due to its geographical isolation and need for external inputs to satisfy the basic needs of its population, including fossil fuels, food, and construction materials. This dependence generates high energy demand and complex transport logistics.

Advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and remote sensing and thermal analysis were implemented to address these challenges. These technologies enable more accurate, real-time data collection and energy and material consumption analysis. “The Galapagos EnerBuild” Monitor project used remote sensing to monitor and optimize the energy performance of homes. The use of these technologies has enabled a better understanding of energy consumption patterns and the identification of specific measures to improve efficiency. For example, implementing photovoltaic systems would significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In contrast, using materials that adapt to the island’s climate reduces energy demand for indoor comfort.

Figure 7. Proposed Data Analysis, Urban Metabolism of Puerto Ayora

Source: Own elaboration.

The experience gained in Puerto Ayora, combined with intelligent city principles, provides a solid basis for the development of energy transition strategies that are both sustainable and efficient. This synergy between academia and the practical implementation of advanced technologies is crucial to achieving the global goals of sustainability and energy efficiency.

Regenerative Economics: Digital Prototyping of Biomaterials

The “Digital Prototyping of Biomaterials” project is a leading example of how cities can integrate regenerative practices into urban development. This project, presented at the IX National Innovation Congress and developed with colleagues from the University of Guanajuato, Mexico, focuses on researching and developing biomaterials using advanced technology to create building material passports. As a researcher, I proposed integrating the MuSIASEM (Multi-Scale Integrated Analysis of Societal and Ecosystem Metabolism) concept into software simulation to evaluate urban decarbonization strategies in digitally prototyping materials. This multi-dimensional approach encompasses social, economic, and ecological aspects, allowing a holistic assessment of the impact of decarbonization strategies. At the macro level, demographics, cultural practices, and infrastructure investments are analyzed, while at the micro level, the focus is on energy efficiency and material selection. Using advanced tools such as BIM and Energy Plus, detailed simulations were set up and run, providing crucial data on the energy consumption and environmental impacts of proposed materials.

Figure 8. MuSIASEM Approach Applied to the Simulation of Urban Decarbonization Strategies

Source: Own elaboration.

These efforts resulted in specific measures that optimize energy use, reduce the carbon footprint, and promote a circular urban metabolism, contributing significantly to the development of sustainable cities.

Lessons Learned and Challenges 

Implementing 3D urban modeling and remote sensing has been essential for monitoring environmental conditions in real time, improving climate change planning and mitigation. Climate simulations facilitate effective adaptation strategies to reduce the impact of urban heat islands and strengthen the resilience of architectural heritage. In addition, laser scanning and digital twin technology have optimized heritage management and preservation.

Energy and material flow analysis identifies energy consumption patterns fundamental to island territories’ sustainability. Advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and thermal sensors optimize energy consumption in real-time, improving the performance of buildings with photovoltaic systems and climate-adapted materials. Projects such as the Galapagos EnerBuild Monitor demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies in improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprint.

Renewable biomaterials have proven to be effective in transforming building practices towards sustainability. Tools such as BIM and Energy Plus have provided critical data through energy simulations, optimizing energy use and reducing the carbon footprint. Integrating the MuSIASEM approach into simulation software allows for a comprehensive assessment of decarbonization strategies, considering social, economic, and ecological aspects to promote a circular urban metabolism.

Challenges Around Emerging Technologies and Urban Sustainability Strategies

  • Adaptability and Scalability: Emerging technologies must adapt to different urban contexts and scale effectively for application in diverse cities. Flexibility and customization of technology solutions are crucial.
  • Funding and Resources: Obtaining sufficient funding and resources to implement advanced and sustainable technologies remains a significant challenge. It is crucial to develop innovative financing models and public-private partnerships.
  • Education and Training: Training professionals and academics in using new technologies and multidimensional approaches is essential to ensure successful implementation. Training and continuing education programs are necessary to keep practitioners up to date.
  • Policies and Regulations: Developing policies and regulations that support adopting sustainable technologies and urban practices is essential for their long-term success. Policies should encourage innovation and provide incentives for the adoption of sustainable practices.

These lessons learned, as well as challenges, underscore the need for an integrated and collaborative approach to advancing urban sustainability, harnessing emerging technologies, and developing effective strategies for decarbonization and energy efficiency. 

Learn more about the subject through these scientific productions: Buildings 2024, 14, 202. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14010202; http://Preprints 2024, 2024070860. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202407.0860.v1

Lessons Learned: Emerging Technologies and Urban Sustainability Strategies © 2024 by Juana Perlaza Rodriguez is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0

Author: 

Juana Perlaza Rodriguez

Principal Consultant and Founder Novamanto

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