What are smart cities?

Smart cities are defined by the ability to make real-time decisions based on data collected from an interconnected network of sensors and processors known as the Internet of Things (IoT).

The IoT gathers data through sensors and monitors. This data is used by AI technology to model urban problems and enact solutions in real time.

Widespread data collection allows for flexible and quick decision making. It can be used for efficient resource allocation, better monitoring of environmental conditions, pollution and congestion, and accessible citizen engagement.

In the last few years smart city technologies have rapidly changed the way British cities are developed and function. With applications throughout the urban realm, it has transformed water and waste management, public transport services and energy efficiency.

Smart SuDs Systems

Glasgow’s 250 year old Forth and Clyde canal has been transformed into an AI powered SuDS system, creating Europe’s first “smart canal”.

The project used sensors and smart weather mapping to anticipate storms and heavy rainfall. Releasing canal water into specially designed networks, for storm and surface water runoff to be safely attenuated in the canal.

Lowering the water levels of the canal by 10cm allows 55,000 cubic metres of floodwater to be stored and slowly released, helping to protect and support existing water drainage and sewer systems. 

Smart urban air pollution control

In Wolverhampton artificial intelligence technology is being used to address urban air pollution levels.

Artificial intelligence is used alongside pollution monitors and traffic lights to slow drivers entering areas with high pollution levels.

AI Controlled traffic lights hold drivers entering polluted zones for up to 20 seconds, while permitting vehicles to leave the zone 20 seconds faster. By allowing cars to leave polluted areas faster than they can enter, air pollution can safely dissipate.

With predictive AI technology this is can be used preemptively, preventing the creation of pollution hotspots in urban centres. 

Smart power usage for low carbon cities

Data driven decision making can also be used to optimise power usage, and lower carbon emissions in real time. The Triangulum project, which focussed on central Manchester turned the Oxford Road Corridor into a low carbon district.

The project Installed solar panels and a 400kWh lithium-ion battery, creating a microgrid that was managed by a cloud based smart controller.

The cloud based controller would specify whether the battery should store or release energy. Using solar power – or when it was more energy efficient – power from the main grid.

By using smart technologies to optimise energy efficiency CO2 emissions were slashed. If implemented citywide it could reduce carbon by 57,000 tonnes, the equivalent emissions of 12,000 cars.

Smart lighting for the public realm

Even the way we light public spaces can become smarter.

It has become popular for street lighting to be adaptable. Using sensors, timers, or predictive technology, lights can be dimmed when not in use, and brightened for safety and navigation.

Dimming lights when not needed supports wildlife, efficient energy use, and protects dark sky areas.

Smart public lighting also has health benefits. It can promote restfulness and sleep health. Less light spilling into peoples homes at night, can help to minimise melatonin suppressing exposure to bright blue light.

Smart traffic management

Transportation is another area where the IoT is having a tangible impact. Interconnected sensors can monitor and manage traffic flow, collecting data on congestion and road conditions, and providing navigation suggestions.

Dedicated apps can help people find available car parking, lowering emissions from circling vehicles and saving time.

Smart public transport systems let passengers know about arrival times and locations, making public travel more efficient and user friendly.

Smart waste collection

One innovative use of smart city technology is in waste collection management. Copenhagen, the Danish capital, is running a pilot scheme to optimise collection efficiency.

In the scheme, bins are fitted with sensors that detect when they are full and ready to be emptied. This information is then relayed to a system that optimises the route of collection vehicles.

By avoiding bins that are still empty both time and money are saved. While bins that are full are emptied promptly, preventing litter spilling out into the surrounding area.

Smart city privacy concerns

There are privacy concerns with the IoT and the widespread data collection needed to make smart cities function.

We have the example of China using high powered facial recognition software for a social credit system. Surveillance can be used to discourage political opposition and dissent. In a democratic country sometimes anonymity goes hand in hand with freedom of expression.

These privacy concerns are one of the main reasons why promising smart city schemes often remain as proof of concept.

There are also ethical discussions that need to be had over the limit between private and public data. Whether citizens have a way to opt out of the information being collected by these growing surveillance systems. As well as if there is potential for personal data to be misused, either by governments or tech firms.