Lean Innovation: The Way Forward for Urban Mobility?
Technological innovations are redefining the way people move around. Examples like autonomous vehicles and AI-powered mobility solutions show that innovators can offer bold pathways to public and private decision-makers. In this session, speakers will reflect on the driving forces behind the mobility transition, and on the role of innovation governance, including public procurements, to foster innovations for more sustainable mobility.
Cutting-Edge Tech Empowering a Greener Future
The intersection of enabling technologies and sustainability is revolutionizing how environmental challenges are addressed. Innovations such as IoT, AI, and renewable energy systems are enhancing energy efficiency, reducing carbon footprints, and making our overall existence more sustainable. As societies become more aware of the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices, tech leaders are pioneering the transition to a greener, more sustainable future for our planet.
This session featured the participation of our global partners FCC Servicios Medio Ambiente.
AI’s Sustainability Challenge
When it comes to climate change and environmental impact, will Artificial Intelligence solve more problems than it creates? AI’s huge energy and water requirements have caused some of the biggest technology companies in the world to miss their climate targets, a problem that will likely only worsen in the near to medium term. Yet AI is also helping to improve productivity, identify efficiencies, and support innovation, all of which we need to achieve our net zero targets. This talk considers current efforts to make AI more sustainable and what this challenge means for smart cities.
Ports Open to the City: How Smart Ports Bring Value to BCN & L.A.
Throughout history, ports have been the gateway for trade, goods, and people, and therefore, also for new ideas and innovation. The changing landscape of logistics and technology, along with increased awareness of climate change, has forced port authorities to shift their mindset and embrace a new role in cities to reduce environmental impact. This panel session will explore the dynamics between ports and cities, focusing on key themes such as environmental conservation and biodiversity protection, economic support and growth, human resource development, job creation, and the integration of green spaces.
2024 World Smart City Awards Ceremony
The annual World Smart City Awards is a prestigious international competition that seeks to recognize pioneering projects, ideas and strategies making cities around the world more livable, sustainable, and economically viable.
After another highly competitive process, with a record-breaking 429 entries sent in from 64 countries worldwide, this year’s winners were announced at a gala held during Smart City Expo 2024.
Calling all Cities to Action: Tackling the Climate Emergency
Can cities lead the global fight against climate change? Urban centers, heavily impacted by the climate emergency, hold the power to implement specialized policies and actions to address this urgent issue. These initiatives, affecting a significant portion of the world’s population, could drive substantial progress in mitigating environmental impacts and promoting a sustainable future. By leveraging their unique position, cities can spearhead global efforts to combat climate change and ensure long-term environmental resilience.
Cities at the heart of European Competitiveness: Reindustrialisation and Proximity Planning
Cities are key to aligning economic growth and climate goals. This session explores how mayors from Barcelona, Milan, and Manchester are driving reindustrialisation and proximity planning to build competitive, climate-neutral urban economies. We’ll discuss how cities can contribute to the upcoming EU Clean Industrial Deal, foster innovation, create jobs, and ensure their work spearhead national and EU policies for a sustainable future.
Leadership in Action: Crafting Safe and Tech-Forward Cities
Can new technologies help build resilient, secure, and forward-thinking urban environments? How can local leaders spearhead this technological revolution? Strategic governance is essential for seamlessly integrating cutting-edge tech into city life while ensuring robust security frameworks. As policymakers are pivotal in fostering innovation, safeguarding digital infrastructure, and protecting citizen data, this high-level roundtable will debate how effective governance can create innovative, secure, and vibrant cities for the future.
Urban Technologies Shaping the City’s Skylines
How are the latest technological advances transforming the way we build and inhabit our cities? The impact of technologies like Digital Twins, IoT, AI, and advanced construction techniques on the urban environment is undeniable. These innovations are revolutionizing urban planning, construction, and infrastructure usage, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. It is vital to harness these technologies to make cities more sustainable, inclusive, and tech-forward.
Redefining Livability for the Citizens of Tomorrow
City governments must strive to leave no one behind. As global inequalities intensify, cities have the potential to become sanctuaries where all citizens are given equal opportunities. This starts with forward-thinking, bold, and decisive policy planning and implementation. By harnessing the power of community engagement, accessible technologies, and sustainable development, cities can evolve to meet their residents’ diverse needs and foster a sense of belonging for all citizens.