Overview of Sustainable Smart City
Smart Sustainable City Introduction
Since around 2008, the concept of Smart Cities has evolved significantly, driven by advancements in technologies like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors, wireless connectivity, electronic payments, and cloud-based software services These innovations have paved the way for collaborative solutions aimed at addressing various urban challenges effectively.
4 WHO July 2017 Progress on Drinking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
5 Yu Jae-Hyun October 2019 ICT Infrastructures for SSC: Opportunities & Challenges
13 extensive collected data 6 SSC can be defined in many ways and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) statistics identify that there are already more than
A smart sustainable city (SSC) is defined by the ITU as an innovative urban area that leverages information and communication technologies (ICTs) to enhance the quality of life, improve the efficiency of urban operations and services, and boost competitiveness This approach aims to meet the economic, social, and environmental needs of both present and future generations.
Meanwhile, the International Standard Organization (ISO) defines SSC as a
“community infrastructure with enhanced technological performance that is designed, operated, and maintained to contribute to sustainable development and resilience of the community.” 9
The General Working Group of Chinese Smart Cities Standardization describes
A smart city represents an innovative model that leverages advanced information technologies, including the Internet of Things, cloud computing, big data, and spatial information integration, to enhance urban planning, construction, management, and services The development of smart cities promotes synchronized growth across various sectors, such as industrialization, information technology, urbanization, and agricultural modernization, while also ensuring the sustainability of urban development.
The British Standards define a "smart city" as the seamless integration of physical, digital, and human systems within the built environment, aimed at fostering a sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive future for its citizens.
6 Sanjay Bhatnagar, Deepti Garg, Manisha Bhatnagar 2014 Smart Cities – An Overview and the Role of ICT
7 ITU May 2015 Smart Sustainable Cities: An Analysis of Definitions
8 Mire Sam November 2019 Blockchain for Smart Cities: 12 Possible Use Cases Available at https://www.disruptordaily.com/blockchain-use-cases-smart-cities
9 ISO 37105:2019 November 2019 Sustainable Development in Communities - Descriptive Framework for Cities and Communities
10 ITU May 2015 Smart Sustainable Cities: An Analysis of Definitions
11 The British Standards Institution 2014 Smart City Framework: Guide to Establishing Strategies for Smart Cities and Communities
Thailand defines a smart city as one that utilizes technology, innovation, and effective design to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve management and service delivery The ultimate goal is to elevate the quality of life for citizens, promote happiness, and ensure sustainability.
The U.S Smart Cities and Communities Guide for Federal Agencies defines smart communities as innovative research and development in advanced technologies aimed at transforming both new and existing infrastructures to foster economic growth Across the nation, small towns, farming communities, regional hubs, and urban centers are adopting the smart community concept to enhance progress in various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, energy, public safety, and healthcare.
Vietnam defines a smart city (SSC) as an urban area that leverages innovative and reliable information and communication technologies (ICT) to enhance citizens' quality of life This approach aims to boost the efficiency of urban operations and services through data analytics, foster greater citizen involvement in city management, stimulate innovation and economic growth, and prioritize environmental protection.
The lack of a unified definition for Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) highlights the term's multifaceted nature, allowing for diverse interpretations A review of existing definitions reveals several key factors that contribute to a city's transformation into a smarter entity, which can be categorized accordingly.
12 Treethidtaphat Wichai October 2019 Thailand Smart City Development Plan and ICT Infrastructures
City architecture includes several structures, social aspects and components, and relationships among those various components As described in Standard ISO
The article "Sustainable Development in Communities - Descriptive Framework for Cities and Communities" outlines a three-layered architecture for cities, highlighting the complexity of each layer as a system of systems, as illustrated in Figure 2.
Three main layers of a city include Society, Interactions and Structure as illustrated in Figure 2; each layer has a different list of components, domains,
Solutions for citizen City infrastructure
16 information and structures to implement the city's functions, such as living, working, and healthcare
Infrastructures are “pivotal aspects of a smart sustainable city” 13 Traditionally, there are two types of infrastructures 14 :
Hard infrastructures, encompassing physical elements such as buildings, roads, transportation systems, telecommunications networks, and utilities like water and energy, are essential for delivering public services and optimizing resource use These infrastructures address various challenges in transportation, environmental management, and energy distribution Furthermore, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructures act as a crucial connector, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of smart city operations.
- Soft infrastructures or non-physical infrastructures include collected data, applications and software which could be embedded into hard infrastructures to realize services for SSC
Smart cities are designed as modular and compositional systems, where physical and ICT infrastructures interact closely to enhance urban living This structure allows for the modification and adjustment of individual components and layers, providing flexibility without the need for complete system overhauls.
1.3 ICT Infrastructures for Smart Sustainable City
The primary objective of the Smart City Strategy (SSC) is to effectively mobilize a diverse range of both existing and new resources to help the city meet its development objectives A smart city encompasses various infrastructures, with information and communication technology (ICT) serving as a vital component in integrating the city’s physical infrastructures.
- Improve the quality of citizens' life;
- Enhance economic growth and innovation;
13 Da Silva Ivan Nunes, Flauzino Rogério Andrade December 2016 Smart Cities Technologies
14 Kondepudi Sekhar May 2015 An Overview of Smart Sustainable Cities and the Role of Information and Communication Technologies
- Efficiently and optimally manage urban operation;
- Provide public services faster, more effectively and conveniently;
- Enhance safety, security, and privacy for residents
ICT infrastructures should be available before setting-up and offering smart public services to citizens ICT infrastructures include 5 layers as illustrated in Figure
The first layer is Data Acquisition Layer and composes of sensors, Radio- Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, actuators, cameras to collect information in the physical environment
The Network Communication Layer, offered by telecommunication operators, facilitates communication pathways among devices and individuals, enabling seamless information exchange between layers within the SSC.
- Wired network (Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), Cable TV, xDigital Subscriber Line (xDSL);
- Transmission protocols, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) connectivity;
The Computing and Storage Layer, the third layer of network architecture, encompasses essential components such as data centers and cloud computing, which are crucial for data processing and application support Additionally, various network types, including Metro-Area Networks (MAN) and Wide-Area Networks (WAN), play a significant role in facilitating efficient connectivity and communication across broader geographical areas.
The fourth layer is Data and Service Supporting Layer, which makes the city become smarter thanks to analyzing capacity and predicting citizens' requirements
Finally, Smart Application Layer includes various applications such as smart government, smart transportation, smart education, smart home, smart campus, and smart living provided for citizens
Data play a crucial role in the development of smart cities, and their value increases when local governments share this information responsibly Adhering to established or new regulations for data security and privacy is essential to protect citizens' information Consequently, implementing a robust security system within this framework is vital to ensure the safety and privacy of residents.
Smart Services
The primary objective of Smart City Solutions (SSC) is to enhance the quality of life for urban residents, prioritizing public services that significantly impact their daily experiences Key services essential for inhabitants in smart cities include efficient transportation, reliable healthcare, sustainable energy, and effective waste management.
When local governments develop and implement smart city solutions, it is crucial to prioritize interoperability, scalability, and sustainability across various infrastructures and components These services, while based on different systems, must effectively interact with each other and with other city elements to ensure cohesive functionality.
Chapter Conclusion
Generally, the population in the world and the APEC region, in particular, is fast growing They are moving from rural to urban areas, and this move leads to challenges
16 ITU May 2015 Setting the Framework for an ICT Architecture of a Smart Sustainable City
Building Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) is essential for addressing the challenges faced by local and central governments, improving the quality of life for urban residents, and fostering economic growth The implementation of smart cities is a complex endeavor that necessitates the integration of diverse resources, applications, and infrastructures With advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), governments are developing policies and strategies to incorporate these technologies into urban governance and promote smart construction initiatives that cater to public needs The structural components of SSC are modular and designed around specific ICT infrastructures.
- Fixed broadband infrastructure (coaxial and optic fiber cable networks);
- Data and cloud computing facilities;
- Applications and services for citizens;
- Sensing devices such as sensors, RFID cards, and cameras to collect information
To successfully implement Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC), it is essential that ICT infrastructures provide fast and reliable data services Local and central governments must prioritize the development of these infrastructures while also analyzing the needs of their residents to introduce appropriate services and enhance the overall living environment in urban areas.
ICT Infrastructures and Smart Sustainable City Deployment in the
Policies and Regulations on ICT Infrastructures and Smart Sustainable City
In July 2019, the APEC Secretariat distributed a questionnaire to its member economies to assess their ICT infrastructures, policies, and regulations related to the deployment of SSC Data from 14 APEC member economies, along with insights shared during the APEC Workshop in Seoul in October 2019 and additional sources, provides a comprehensive overview of ICT infrastructures for SSC across APEC regions The responses from the participating economies—Australia, Brunei Darussalam, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam—are summarized in the Annex of this report.
Answers from the APEC member economies show that over 70% of them enact strategy for ICT infrastructures and SSC development as below
Figure 5 Policies on ICT infrastructures development for SSC
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
IoT system is being largely deployed in APEC cities, and its support to gather data ever easier 50% of the APEC survey respondents release IoT technical
23 regulations and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for SSC deployment and assessment as pointed out in Figure 6
Figure 6 ICT governance for SSC
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
The Australian Government is dedicated to providing high-speed broadband access to every home and business through the National Broadband Network (NBN) It actively promotes co-investment in digital infrastructure, particularly in regional and remote areas In 2016, the Government unveiled the Smart Cities Plan, outlining its vision for productive and livable cities that foster innovation, stimulate growth, and generate employment opportunities.
The Chinese government has unveiled a strategy for ICT development along with regulations and standards for IoT architectures, focusing on a scientific and people-centric approach to foster Smart Cities Currently, China is advancing into Smart City 2.0, which emphasizes digitalization and innovative solutions in key sectors such as healthcare, education, water, and energy Additionally, these initiatives promote collaboration across regions and ministries to tackle significant challenges effectively.
17 Australian Government December 2016 Smart Cities Plan
18 EU SME Centre 2015 Smart City in China
24 the construction of new cities, China encourages to adopt new technologies such as IoT, 5G, cloud computing and big data in rolling-out ICT infrastructures
Chile establishes a regulatory framework that views ICT infrastructures as essential tools and platforms for developing and managing urban environments, aiming to transform the country into a smarter nation while enhancing innovation and collaboration among its regions.
In 2017, Hong Kong, China announced a strategy on Smart City development
The strategy aims to enhance overall well-being by promoting happiness, health, intelligence, and prosperity while making the city greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Key initiatives include developing ICT infrastructures such as electronic identity systems, a Next Generation Government Cloud Infrastructure, a Big Data Analytics Platform, and 5G mobile networks The implementation of 5G technology will serve as a catalyst for smart city development, facilitating extensive machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and improving Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
Indonesia has implemented a Presidential Decree to advance its broadband plan and e-government system as part of its Smart City Concept (SSC) deployment The design of SSC adheres to international technical standards, prioritizing essential services such as smart mobility, smart energy, smart healthcare, and smart governance Additionally, the Indonesian government is actively researching and developing an appropriate infrastructure to support the rollout of 5G networks.
Japan has unveiled an ICT growth strategy that emphasizes the importance of Big Data and sensor networks as pivotal technologies for fostering new-value industries, enhancing ICT infrastructure, and addressing social challenges The country is committed to strengthening collaboration between industries, academia, and government to effectively implement ICT projects, applications, and services Priority will be given to initiatives focused on data utilization in sectors such as agriculture, broadcasting, disaster prevention, and healthcare.
19 Hong Kong, China December 2017 Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong
Korea is a pioneer in smart city initiatives, having launched policies and strategic plans since 2003 to develop ICT-based urban environments The process of building smart cities in Korea involves several stages, focusing on the development of smart infrastructures and services, ultimately fostering a vibrant smart city ecosystem The central government plays a crucial role in supporting local governments through regulatory, financial, and technical assistance, with a strong emphasis on enhancing public transportation, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure Plans are in place to establish over 20 new smart towns across the country, integrating ICT into urban construction To facilitate this integration, the government is implementing policies that offer financial and practical support for incorporating ICT technologies, particularly in transportation and safety sectors, with funding sourced from the sale of newly developed real estate to the private sector.
Malaysia has identified eight essential components of a Smart City: smart governance, smart economy, smart energy, smart building, smart mobility, smart infrastructure, smart technology, and smart healthcare To support these initiatives, the government has introduced policies aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure, expanding broadband coverage, and promoting research and development in technology Smart city development is integrated into broader urban development projects, focusing on renewable energy and energy conservation Additionally, advanced ICT technologies are being utilized to create new towns that embody the principles of smart communities and smart grids.
Peru has launched a comprehensive strategy for broadband development, accompanied by Law No 29904, which promotes broadband access and the construction of a fiber optic backbone network While the state of broadband services in Peru is still in its infancy, the government recognizes the importance of enhancing connectivity and infrastructure to support digital growth.
26 sectors to be smart, including transportation, safety, and security, culture and tourism, energy, environment, and governance
The Philippines launched a strategy on ICT Ecosystem Framework in February
In 2019, the Philippines introduced a Framework that outlines six key strategies for advancing Information and Communication Technology (ICT), including participatory e-Governance, comprehensive industry and domestic development, user protection and information security, enhanced public connectivity, resource sharing, and capacity building within the ICT sector Additionally, the country launched a broadband plan aimed at promoting the installation of fiber optic cables, expanding mobile coverage, and improving Internet speed.
In 2011, Papua New Guinea launched "Papua New Guinea Vision 2050," outlining the government's goal to develop a smart and healthy society by 2050 Despite this ambitious vision, there are currently no specific regulations governing the establishment of smart cities in Papua New Guinea.
The Russian Government has approved the "Digital Economy of the Russian Federation" program to foster the development of a knowledge-based society This initiative aims to create favorable conditions for technological advancement and digital transformation across the country.
Enhancing the well-being and quality of life for citizens involves boosting the availability and quality of goods and services in the digital economy through modern technologies This includes promoting digital literacy, raising awareness, and improving the accessibility and quality of public services, all while ensuring the security of citizens.
Launched in 2014, Singapore's Smart Nation initiative promotes the widespread adoption of digital and smart technologies across the country This initiative aims to establish Singapore as a leading economy driven by digital innovation, creating a world-class city where the government prioritizes providing citizens with an exceptional living environment and responsive services.
20 Batunova Elena, Trukhachev Sergey April 2019 CRISALIDE: Searching for Smart Solutions in Urban Development Beyond the Political Slogans: a Case of Rostov-on-Don, Southern Russia
ICT Infrastructures in the APEC Region
ICT infrastructures encompass the devices, networks, protocols, and procedures utilized in telecommunications and information technology They play a vital role in delivering diverse digital solutions essential for the development of smart cities.
The APEC region has millions of optical cable networks kilometers and large mobile communications coverage Those infrastructures strongly support
In APEC member economies, 29 telecommunications operators and service providers are working to enhance high-speed Internet access for all customers, facilitating the deployment of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) However, ITU statistical data indicates that fixed broadband penetration remains below 40 lines per 100 inhabitants in most of these economies.
Figure 7 Fixed broadband penetration in the APEC member economies
Source: author computed based on data collected from ITU’s database 22
In recent decades, wireless access technologies have significantly advanced, offering end-users high-speed Internet with greater flexibility compared to cable networks As a result, customers increasingly favor mobile operator subscriptions over fixed network providers, a trend that is evident among users in the APEC region, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 9.
22 ITU 2019 Statistic Available at https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Pages/stat/default.aspx
Thirty economies boast outstanding mobile broadband coverage, with nearly all cities served by 3G and 4G networks This robust mobile infrastructure meets the demands of data-hungry users who increasingly rely on high-speed Internet access provided by these advanced networks.
Figure 8 Coverage of 3G and 4G networks in the APEC region
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
Over the past decade, the APEC region has experienced the fastest growth in mobile subscriptions globally, with mobile broadband penetration exceeding 100 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in economies such as Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Vietnam, and the United States This high level of mobile connectivity is a crucial factor for the deployment and popularization of smart services in APEC cities.
23 Pham Thi Thanh Long October 2019 Building up Smart and Sustainable Cities
Figure 9 Mobile penetration in the APEC member economies
Source: author computed based on data collected from ITU’s database 24
According to ITU data, the number of Internet users in the APEC region surged significantly between 2005 and 2017, highlighting the telecommunications sector's commitment to enhancing infrastructure quality to draw in more users.
24 ITU.2019 Statistic Available at https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Pages/stat/default.aspx
Figure 10 Individuals using the Internet in the APEC region
Source: author computed based on data collected from ITU’s database 25
Nearly all APEC economies are working on developing 5G networks, with China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and the United States already commercializing 5G services These high-speed mobile networks provide low latency Internet access, allowing users to fully leverage the benefits of advanced connectivity.
25 ITU.2019 Statistic Available at https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Pages/stat/default.aspx
26 Singapore, through the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA), launched a public consultation in May
In 2019, a consultation was held to gather insights from the industry and the public regarding the regulatory framework and policies for 5G Subsequently, Mobile Network Operators (MNO) were invited to submit proposals in October 2019, with the results anticipated to be revealed by mid-2020.
33 benefits of new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud computing, M2M and data analytics in SSC.
Deployment of Smart Sustainable City in the APEC Region
Cities aim to enhance residents' quality of life by creating sustainable and resilient environments To achieve these goals, governments implement legal and strategic frameworks that promote the deployment of Smart City Solutions (SCS) This enables the delivery of smart services, including smart mobility, energy, healthcare, governance, and living, through collaboration between public and private sectors It is essential for governments to seek partnerships with universities, non-profits, and the private sector to drive these initiatives forward.
Smart mobility encompasses various services and applications within a city's transportation system, including traffic information services, telematics, and emergency traffic processing By utilizing cameras and sensors to collect data on traffic and road conditions, smart mobility aims to facilitate smoother transportation and minimize accident rates Additionally, it assists local governments in optimizing existing infrastructure for improved efficiency.
Figure 11 Smart services in the APEC region
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
27 The National League of Cities 2016 Trends in Smart City Development Available at https://www.nlc.org/sites/default/files/2017-01/Trends%20in%20Smart%20City%20Development.pdf
Smart government services are being deployed in over 60% of the APEC survey respondents, which offer transparent and sharing information and exchange data to improve public services to residents
Smart energy services, include smart power and smart lighting services, are also being applied in 70% of the APEC survey respondents to save energy
Smart healthcare services are gaining global popularity, offering numerous benefits to communities Innovative technologies are being utilized to monitor and archive medical records for patients and the elderly This stored information allows doctors to predict and treat diseases more swiftly and effectively Feedback from 14 APEC economies indicates that more than 60% are implementing smart healthcare solutions.
Over 50% of economies are currently offering smart living services, with additional smart initiatives such as smart waste management, smart environment monitoring, and smart tourism utilities also in development.
Difficulties and Challenges
Despite having strong ICT infrastructures and effective policies to support SSC deployment, many APEC member economies continue to encounter significant challenges in developing SCC.
Figure 12 Challenges to developing ICT infrastructures for SSC
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
Rapid technological advancements are resulting in significant challenges such as a lack of interoperability, insufficient backward compatibility, and heightened cybersecurity risks, with over 50% of surveyed economies experiencing these issues Additionally, current infrastructures and local regulations impose constraints that hinder the effective deployment of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) in terms of achieving interoperability.
Financial constraints significantly impact the successful deployment of Sustainable Supply Chains (SSC), with over 60% of APEC economies reporting financial obstacles Achieving financial stability is essential for building SSC, prompting the exploration of various financial models Approaches such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Private Finance Initiatives (PFI) are being implemented, as seen in Chinese Taipei, to mobilize diverse investment sources for SSC development.
Over 50% of survey respondents identified the absence of relevant recommendations and international standards as a significant challenge in developing smart cities The complexity of smart cities involves integrating diverse infrastructures, services, and management structures, necessitating that all components function cohesively Therefore, establishing standards is crucial for ensuring interoperability and effective interaction among these elements.
Government and community awareness pose significant challenges for the deployment of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) in the APEC region, particularly regarding residents' privacy and security concerns The active participation and engagement of residents in innovative services are crucial for the success of SSC initiatives Several APEC economies encounter various challenges while developing SSC frameworks.
- Lack of sustainable business policies, strategies, and plans;
- Lack of adequate stakeholders’ participation;
- Limited methods for interdisciplinary planning;
- Limited plans for cybersecurity, privacy and community engagement
ICT infrastructures play a vital role in developing sustainable smart cities, with APEC economies highlighting interoperability, scalability, shareability, measurability, and cybersecurity as essential factors for their advancement.
Figure 13 ICT infrastructures development for SSC - Critical factors
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
Chapter Conclusion
A smart city is composed of various components, infrastructures, services, and organizational structures, leveraging multiple technologies to effectively manage urban environments Central to this framework are ICT infrastructures, which are vital for economic growth and provide numerous digital solutions essential for the deployment of smart city concepts The APEC region boasts robust ICT infrastructures, featuring extensive fiber optic networks, excellent wireless coverage, and significant international bandwidth capacity Notably, several APEC economies, including China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and the United States, are either considering or have already begun commercializing 5G services, which offer high-speed internet access with minimal latency.
37 for people and machines Together with the available IPv6 addresses and smartphones, the APEC region primarily has a good technical basis for SSC deployment
Feedback from APEC member economies indicates that not all have established strategies for ICT infrastructure development, digital transition, or broadband expansion Nevertheless, the APEC region is generally prepared to implement Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) and enhance ICT infrastructure Most APEC economies are actively working on expanding fiber optic networks, improving mobile coverage and wireless technologies, and boosting Internet speeds Regional policies recognize ICT infrastructure as essential for developing and managing smart cities.
The region is encountering significant challenges in enhancing and expanding its ICT infrastructure, including the need for comprehensive policies, regulations, cybersecurity measures, best practices, adherence to international standards, adequate financial resources, and increased public awareness.
ICT Standards for Sustainable Smart Cities
Overview
Standards and relevant guidelines outline the necessary actions, compliance conditions, and procedural steps required to ensure that products, services, and processes function as intended In the context of smart cities, adhering to these standards offers significant advantages, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in urban management and development.
- Enable integration among physical and digital components;
- Attract investments/funding from stakeholders;
- Help to prevent vendor lock-in;
Standardization in the APEC Region
The Smart Cities Council in Australia and New Zealand, part of the International Smart Cities Council, includes policymakers, technology developers, and companies dedicated to smart city initiatives The Council advocates for frameworks and standards that foster a thriving culture within the smart cities sector.
The Council releases Best Practice Guides on smart cities standards 28 , which include a list of standards and basic frameworks for developing smart cities in several
In July 2017, the Smart Cities Council Australia New Zealand released a comprehensive Smart Cities Guidance Note focused on Smart Cities Standards This document serves as a valuable resource for understanding the frameworks and best practices essential for developing smart urban environments For more information, the full guidance note can be accessed at their official website.
39 principle categories such as information modeling, IoT, sustainable community, framework and process standards for smart cities
The following references of smart cities standards identify a core group of standards that are considered potentially relevant to Australia and New Zealand:
Strategic-level standards serve as a comprehensive guide for city leaders in crafting a clear and effective smart city strategy This involves identifying key priorities, creating a practical implementation roadmap, and establishing a robust approach to monitor and evaluate progress effectively.
- Process-level standards: cover best practices in procuring and managing cross-organizational and cross-sectorial smart city projects include guidance on combining appropriate financing packages
- Technical specifications: define practical requirements for products and services to ensure that they can achieve objectives set forth by the governments
These standards are categorized as follows:
The strategic-level standards for smart city development include ISO 37120:2014, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities, and ISO 37101:2016, emphasizing management systems for sustainable development Additional standards such as ISO 37102:2016 and ISO/TR 37121:2017 provide frameworks for resilient cities, while ISO/TR 37152 and ISO/TR 37150 address smart city indicators and data interoperability Furthermore, ISO/IEC 30182:2017 outlines a standard for smart city frameworks, complemented by PAS 180:2014, PD 8100, and PD 8101, which offer guidelines for smart city planning and implementation The BS 8904:2011 standard also contributes to sustainable development practices, alongside the NDRC's guidance on promoting the healthy development of smart cities in China.
- Process-level standards: ISO 14001, ISO 20121, ISO 50001, ISO 27001, ISO
- Technical specifications: ISO 15686, ISO 16745-1:2017, ISO 16745-2:2017, IEEE Standard 1686, IEEE Standard 1547.3, ISO 2948-1-1:2016, ISO/TS 12911:2012, ISO 16739:2013, ISO/TS 8000-1:2011, ISO 8000-8:2015, ISO/TS 8000-150:2011, PAS 1192-3:2014, BS 1192-4:2014, PAS 1192-5:2015, BS 8536-1:2015, BS 8536- 2:2016, PAS 212:2016, BS 1192:2007 + A2:2016, PAS 1192-2:2013, UNE 178303
29 Rodger Lea December 2017 Smart City Standards: An Overview
Effective city asset management requires adherence to specific standards and guidelines tailored for local entities in Spain, such as TR38 and TR40, which focus on sensor network standards for public areas and homes in Singapore Additionally, TR47 and TR50 provide a framework for IoT reference architecture and ensuring interoperability of information and services In Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, the Green Star rating tool assists in the sustainable planning, design, construction, and operation of buildings and communities Furthermore, the IPWEA Model Specification outlines best practices for LED public lighting and control systems, enhancing urban infrastructure efficiency.
The Smart Cities Council actively promotes smart city standards, aiming to foster a culture that values and advances these standards within the industry By providing essential guidance and information, the Council enhances awareness and empowers stakeholders to take action Their ongoing research and engagement in the development, testing, and refinement of smart city standards contribute significantly to creating a vibrant marketplace for smart city solutions.
In 2014, China formed a Working Group on Standardization, Coordination, and Promotion of Smart Cities, involving 26 ministries and agencies By 2016, following two years of research, three domestic agencies introduced criteria for evaluating smart cities across the economy (GB/T 33356-2016) Additionally, China plays an active role in the smart city sector within the three major international standards organizations: the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Standard Framework for Smart Cities issued by the Working Group includes seven categories of standards, those are general standards, and standards on support
41 technology and platform, infrastructures, construction, and living environment, management and services, production and economy, security and safety
The framework also defines a master plan for the standardization of smart city development in China
General standards serve as the foundational regulations and framework for smart cities, encompassing four key groups: terms and definitions, reference models, evaluation models and criteria for smart cities, and guidelines for standard application All subsequent standards must be developed in alignment with these general standards.
Support technology and platform standards are essential for the development of smart cities, encompassing a comprehensive framework that includes ten key standard groups These groups focus on connectivity for all devices, network communications, computing and storage solutions, data integration models, service integration, business process collaboration, public application support platforms, operational centers, and necessary infrastructure Adhering to these standards ensures seamless integration and functionality across smart city technologies.
Infrastructure standards are essential for the development and operation of smart cities, encompassing five key groups: ICT infrastructures, water source infrastructures, energy infrastructures, transportation infrastructures, and environmental protection infrastructures These standards support and ensure the effectiveness of urban infrastructure systems, facilitating sustainable growth and efficient city management.
- Construction and living environment standards are comprised of four standard groups for planning and design, implementation management, operation management, and living environment
Management and service standards are essential for ensuring the smooth operation of smart city systems, encompassing evaluation methods, supervision, and acceptance processes throughout construction and operation This framework includes a comprehensive set of 21 standards.
The article outlines 42 standard groups essential for effective electronic administration, including market surveillance, public safety, and emergency management It highlights the importance of territory, demographic, and regional management, alongside real estate and transportation services Additionally, it emphasizes energy, logistics, education, cultural, healthcare, employment, and social insurance services The list further encompasses nursing, housing insurance, travel, financial services, and e-commerce, showcasing a comprehensive framework for enhancing public sector efficiency and service delivery.
Production and economy standards encompass guidelines and best practices for production planning, enhancement, and the evolution of processes within smart cities These standards are categorized into three main groups focused on production planning, process upgrading, and the development of new production industries.
Security and safety standards play a crucial role in ensuring data information security and the management of key systems during the development of smart city systems These standards encompass six key groups: data security, system security, information security management, security precautions, product and technology testing evaluation, and system testing evaluation.
China is actively developing smart city standards under the Standards Framework for Smart City, which includes both voluntary and mandatory guidelines Some of these standards are currently being drafted or are set to be published, reflecting the country's commitment to advancing smart city initiatives.
- GB/T 33356-2016: Evaluation indicators for new-type smart cities;
- GB/T 34678-2017: Smart city - Technical reference model;
- GB/T 35775-2017: Spatiotemporal infrastructure for smart city - evaluation indicator system;
- GB/T 35776-2017: Spatiotemporal infrastructure for smart city - Basic specifications;
- GB/T 36332-2018: Smart city - Domain knowledge model - Core conceptual model;
- GB/T 36333-2018: Smart city - Top-level design guide;
- GB/T 36334-2018: Smart city - Specification for software service budget management;
- GB/T 36445-2018: Smart city - Application guide of SOA standard;
- GB/T 36620-2018: Internet of things (IoT) based technical application guide for smart city;
- GB/T 36621-2018: Smart city - Guide for information technology operation;
- GB/T 36622.1-2018: Smart city - Support platform for public information and services - Part 1: General requirements;
- GB/T 36622.2-2018: Smart city - Support platform for public information and services - Part 2: Directory management and service requirements;
- GB/T 36622.3-2018: Smart city - Support platform for public information and services - Part 3: Test requirements;
- GB/T 36625.1-2018: Smart city - Data fusion - Part 1: Conceptual model;
- GB/T 36625.2-2018: Smart city - Data fusion - Part 2: Specification of data encoding;
- GB/T 36625.5-2019: Smart city - Data fusion - Part 5: Data elements of basic municipal facilities;
- GB/T 37971-2019: Information security technology - Framework of smart city security system
Society 5.0 is a plan of Japan towards 17 sustainable development goals in all areas of its social life Society 5.0 defines that standards are one of the main works for
ICT Infrastructures Implementation for SSC
Role of ICT Infrastructures in SSC
In Chapter 1, we explored the various definitions of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC), with ITU statistics revealing over 100 distinct interpretations Despite the diversity in these definitions, they all converge on a common understanding of the critical role that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructures play in the successful implementation of SSC initiatives.
- "To improve the quality of life of cities' citizens;
- To ensure tangible economic growth, such as higher standards of living and employment opportunities for citizens;
- To improve the well-being of citizens, include medical care, welfare, physical safety, and education;
- To establish an environmentally responsible and sustainable approach, which meets the needs of today without sacrificing the needs of future generations;
- To streamline physical infrastructure-based services such as transportation (mobility), water, utilities (energy), telecommunications, and manufacturing sectors;
- To reinforce prevention and handling functionality for natural and man-made disasters, including the ability to address impacts of climate change;
- To provide effective and well-balanced regulations, compliance and governance mechanism with appropriate and equitable policies and processes in a standardized manner." 32
Traditional urban development often involves managing infrastructure systems in isolation, leading to poor communication and limited information sharing among government agencies, public-private partnerships, and communities This siloed approach can hinder resource optimization and impede access to critical information necessary for informed decision-making during emergencies Embracing smart urban development strategies can enhance collaboration and improve resilience.
32 Bhatnagar Sanjay, Garg Deepti, Bhatnagar Manisha 2014 Smart Cities – An Overview and the Role of ICT
To develop into a smart city, it is crucial for municipalities to adopt a holistic approach that encompasses the creation of diverse infrastructures and fosters government participation, technology application, and citizen collaboration Smart city initiatives rely on robust ICT infrastructures, which consist of both soft and hard components organized into layers: Network, Service, Cloud Computing, Data Platforms, and Access Devices These layers are fundamental in enhancing the daily lives of residents by improving sectors such as transportation, healthcare, security, energy, and education.
Smart city deployment focuses on people while relying on ICT infrastructure as its backbone, facilitating data collection, storage, and analysis for various services For instance, smart energy services leverage sensor systems to manage energy use by monitoring and controlling consumption, leading to improved efficiency, reduced waste, and optimized energy usage Similarly, in Chinese Taipei, ICT applications enhance mobility by utilizing camera systems to detect available parking spaces and relay real-time information to drivers, thereby minimizing time spent searching for parking These systems also monitor traffic conditions, informing drivers of congestion and alternative routes.
33 Kondepudi Sekhar May 2015 An Overview of Smart Sustainable Cities and the Role of Information and Communication
ICT infrastructures are a crucial tool in supporting to provide those services to cities' residents
Security is a crucial element of smart city systems, impacting all layers of smart city infrastructure The successful deployment of smart cities relies heavily on data; without data, there is no smart city, and increased information leads to greater knowledge alongside heightened data security vulnerabilities A significant challenge in smart city implementation is effective data sharing, which aims to leverage valuable information collected from widespread sensor networks However, data sharing is susceptible to anonymous threats, making robust security measures essential for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of citizens' data Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructures, including software and hardware solutions like firewalls and private keys, play a vital role in preventing unauthorized access and safeguarding data security These ICT infrastructures serve as the "glue" that integrates all components of a smart city, creating a cohesive foundational platform that acts as the nerve center, orchestrating various functions and services.
Smart city technologies leverage big data and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance urban living These innovations play a crucial role in improving efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life in cities By integrating data from various sources, cities can optimize transportation, energy usage, and public services The application of big data and IoT enables real-time decision-making, fostering smarter urban environments As cities continue to evolve, the adoption of these technologies is essential for addressing challenges and promoting growth.
54 all the different interactions between the various core elements and the physical infrastructure.” 35
Prerequisite Conditions to Deploy Smart Sustainable City
Each city has unique challenges and requirements, necessitating tailored approaches to address specific urban issues However, the concept of a smart city offers a unified strategy for tackling these problems through the implementation of advanced ICT infrastructures, which enhance city management and improve livability Central to the development of a smart city is ensuring access to the Internet, as it underpins the delivery and utilization of smart services Consequently, the readiness of ICT infrastructures is a critical prerequisite for the successful deployment of smart city concepts.
The APEC region boasts robust fixed and mobile broadband networks, with high Internet access penetration across its economies However, to successfully implement Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC), a comprehensive ICT infrastructure is essential, extending beyond just telecommunications The deployment of advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, Big Data, and Cloud is crucial for facilitating effective information exchange among individuals, machines, and between them.
Furthermore, ICT infrastructures should be developed based on open standards to ensure interoperability among layers and services in SSC
35 Bhatnagar Sanjay, Garg Deepti, Bhatnagar Manisha 2014 Smart Cities – An Overview and the Role of ICT
To enhance urban efficiency and intelligence, cities must implement ICT infrastructures, while government awareness and readiness are crucial for the successful deployment of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) The primary goal of developing SSC is to elevate the quality of life for citizens, improve environmental sustainability, and boost the local economy Therefore, local governments should formulate and enforce policies that promote the accelerated and coordinated development of SSC tailored to their unique social and economic contexts.
Cities in the APEC region vary significantly in shape, size, and development, making it challenging to replicate successful models for South-South Cooperation (SSC) Therefore, local governments must thoroughly assess the unique circumstances of their cities when planning SSC initiatives Additionally, it is crucial for these governments to prioritize sectors for deployment in a strategic sequence, given the limited resources available in their cities.
Figure 16 People-centric cities enabled by smart and connected systems
Source: Pham Thi Thanh Long, 2019
Financial sustainability is crucial for the effective deployment of Shared Service Centers (SSC) Local governments must establish a comprehensive budget and secure funding sources for both the implementation and ongoing maintenance of SSCs, a process that requires significant time and effort.
To establish Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC), local governments must collaborate with various stakeholders, including research institutions, universities, startups, and citizens According to feedback from the APEC survey conducted in July 2019, more than 60% of responding economies within APEC are currently facing challenges related to sustainable financing.
Major Technologies of ICT Infrastructures
A smart city relies on robust digital connectivity, including fixed and mobile broadband as well as IoT networks, to deliver intelligent services These networks facilitate innovative service delivery models and provide essential tools for monitoring, storing, and analyzing collected data effectively.
To deliver smart services in SSC, several emerging ICT technologies should be considered to deploy as appropriate such as IoT, 5G and AI as examined below
In the development of smart cities, data plays a crucial role as local governments rely on it to analyze and enhance services for residents The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vital technology in this context, generating vast amounts of information and serving as a global infrastructure that facilitates connections among people, devices, and systems IoT encompasses various components, including devices, sensors, applications, and data, all of which are essential for effective technological solutions Acting as the nervous system of a smart city, IoT integrates sensors across numerous applications, from buildings to parking areas and water systems Despite its potential, the sensors utilized in smart services encounter several challenges that need to be addressed.
Smart city technologies leverage Big Data and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance urban living These innovations facilitate data collection and analysis, enabling cities to optimize resources and improve services By integrating IoT devices, cities can monitor traffic, manage energy consumption, and enhance public safety The application of these technologies not only promotes sustainability but also fosters a more connected community, ultimately leading to smarter, more efficient urban environments.
- Ability to interface with networks (e.g., Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy tech);
- Application-ready outputs (e.g., signals and data)
Digital transformation in cities will be enabled by breakthroughs of sensor technologies Following major changes in sensor operations can support cities in enabling new applications, such as:
- “Color Sensor for mobile phones, tablets, and laptops that "see" the color of light as the human eye does, enabling device displays to have more natural appearances
- Multi-Spectral and Hyper - Spectral Sensor Integrated Circuits that function as laboratory- grade spectrometers that enable food inspection and harvest analysis
- 3D Imaging Systems-on-a-chip that are set to transform AR/VR: applications and improve gesture sensing, face scanning, and 3D modeling
- Sensors for medical, which include ultra-accurate digital imaging devices in hospitals and miniature sensing systems-on- a-chip (e.g., for a fitness wristband) for measuring heart rate and blood oxygen levels
Digital sensors play a crucial role in various applications, including digital cameras, medical imaging, night-vision equipment, thermal imaging, radars, sonars, media houses, and biometric systems In the retail sector, these sensors enable the monitoring of customer activity via IoT networks, while in corporate environments, they track employee interactions and activities However, the widespread use of digital surveillance raises significant concerns regarding privacy and human rights, particularly the right to be free from arbitrary interference It is essential for governments to consider these implications when creating regulatory frameworks for smart sensor technology.
IoT systems rely on sensors to collect environmental data, necessitating a robust communication network for data transmission to IoT service platforms Recent advancements have focused on IoT solutions compatible with 4G and 5G networks, as well as short-range wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and LoRa While short-range networks face challenges related to power consumption and coverage, the global trend is leaning towards 5G IoT solutions For regions yet to implement 5G, NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) presents an ideal alternative for smart city applications, offering advantages such as extensive coverage, cost-effectiveness, and efficient battery usage.
5G, the fifth generation of mobile networks, provides significant benefits over 4G, such as enhanced speed, lower latency, greater network density, and improved functions and security features Many APEC economies are currently testing 5G technology.
37 Yu Jae-Hyun October 2019 ICT Infrastructures for SSC: Opportunities & Challenges
5G technology is being commercialized in countries like China, Korea, and the United States, marking a significant shift from previous network generations Unlike 2G, 3G, and 4G, which primarily facilitated communication between people, 5G is focused on IoT and business applications, addressing the needs of emerging technologies While 4G networks provided sufficient speed and low latency for entertainment and communication, new innovations such as smart manufacturing, autonomous vehicles, and telehealth demand even lower latency—down to 1ms—and higher density in localized areas 5G networks are designed to meet these requirements, with Deloitte's report indicating that 5G will revolutionize IoT, autonomous cars, smart cities, and mobile applications by offering peak data rates up to 20 times faster than 4G, along with significantly reduced latency.
Before widespread deployment, 5G technology must undergo standardization, supported by numerous organizations such as ITU-T, ETSI, IETF, and 3GPP These bodies are dedicated to establishing requirements, architectures, protocols, and radio frequencies for 5G networks Their standardization efforts concentrate on critical aspects including speed, capacity, latency, reliability, resilience, and security According to the GSM Association (GSMA), these characteristics will define the performance and capabilities of 5G networks.
- 1-10Gbps connections to endpoints in the field;
38 Deloitte 2018 5G Mobile Technology: Are Businesses Ready to Seize the Opportunity
39 FTTH Council Europe 2019 Fixed-Mobile Network Convergence the Key Role of Fibre
- 90% reduction in network energy usage;
Smart city technologies rely on robust connectivity, and 5G networks deliver a strong connection for millions of devices and sensors, facilitating efficient IoT operations The capabilities of 5G will support numerous applications, including those still in development.
A large number of these use cases will be for critical services that are essential to public health and safety, such as emergency services, telehealth, and autonomous vehicles
Self-driving cars rely on advanced sensors to collect real-time data about road conditions and traffic, enabling them to make immediate decisions To function effectively, these autonomous vehicles require ultra-low latency connections, which are optimally provided by 5G networks For instance, in the event of an accident, a self-driving car can quickly alert following vehicles, ensuring that critical information about traffic and weather conditions is communicated swiftly.
Smart homes utilize interconnected smart devices that communicate seamlessly with one another, enabling remote control and monitoring of power consumption across all devices through advanced in-building networks.
Emergency services, such as firefighters and response teams, can utilize helmets equipped with real-time video streaming capabilities This technology allows instant transmission of footage to supervisors, enabling them to offer critical guidance on managing hazardous situations effectively.
The advent of 5G technology is revolutionizing virtual reality in healthcare, as its low latency allows for the remote delivery of medical services This advancement enables doctors to utilize cutting-edge robots and maintain real-time connections, facilitating remote examinations and even surgeries with unprecedented efficiency.
5G technology, utilizing high-band frequencies above 6 GHz and narrow targeted beams, relies on a dense network of small cells and base stations for comprehensive coverage This necessitates significant capital investment in mobile networks, making infrastructure sharing between mobile operators and public utility companies, such as electricity and water providers, a viable solution for cost-effective deployment With the immense data flow and critical applications like telehealth and autonomous vehicles dependent on 5G, it is essential for governments to partner with trusted vendors that prioritize digital security in the construction of these networks.
Data is essential for the development of smart cities, as it is collected by widespread sensor systems that help city governments and stakeholders save time, money, and energy However, processing this data is complex due to the diverse formats and locations of the sensors According to research from the International Data Corporation (IDC), global data generation is projected to reach 44 trillion GB annually by 2020, highlighting the exponential growth of data in urban environments.
Typical Roadmaps to Deploy ICT Infrastructures for SSC
4.1 Typical Roadmaps for ICT Infrastructures
Each APEC economy faces unique challenges in deploying smart city solutions, leading to diverse approaches for addressing these issues A key factor in developing smart cities is the utilization of ICT infrastructure, which plays a vital role in enhancing citizens' quality of life and promoting economic growth By leveraging advanced platforms, such as 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT), cities can implement innovative smart services to effectively tackle urban problems.
The effective deployment of Smart City Solutions (SSC) relies heavily on well-defined master plans, strategies, and visions that optimize investment In Chinese Taipei, the development of SSC has been structured into three distinct phases, each with specific projects backed by the central government The initial phase, starting in 2006, prioritized the establishment of Wi-Fi infrastructure for ICT Subsequent phases shifted focus towards smart applications and services utilizing LTE technology, emphasizing citizen engagement and mobilizing financial resources from the private sector.
In Thailand, the government has a quite clear strategy and concrete goals toward a smart economy, for example achieving 1000 creative entrepreneurs by 2020
66 and becoming a paradise for digital workers and investors Building local startups in IoT smart cities is also one of the government strategies
The United States promotes collaboration among cities, communities, industries, and universities to advance Smart City Solutions (SSC) By fostering public-private partnerships and encouraging grassroots initiatives, it aims to secure funding and exchange best practices, ultimately strengthening the development of smarter urban environments.
Figure 20 The roadmap toward SSC development
Effective SSC roadmaps must include well-defined timelines, standards, and essential developments for ICT infrastructures, connectivity, and smart services, along with relevant regulations These elements are crucial for creating a comprehensive plan that guides the implementation of SSC initiatives.
The readiness of ICT infrastructures is essential for the successful deployment of smart cities in any economy, as they facilitate internet connectivity and the delivery of smart services Given the varying infrastructures and conditions across different cities, it is crucial for local and central governments to assess and analyze their existing ICT infrastructure before determining their strategies for developing smart city solutions.
Building goal, strategy, plan for developing smart city
Adoption standards, model, learnt intenational experience
Promote and engage of citizen, startups, investors , university
Building, monitoring and evaluating infrastructrure ICT
Governments must establish clear timelines and phases for the implementation of robust ICT infrastructures utilizing advanced emerging technologies Additionally, it is essential for them to adopt appropriate standards and technologies to improve Internet access speed, expand broadband coverage, and ensure security.
Smart services are essential components of a smart city, designed to enhance residents' quality of life and address everyday challenges These services rely on robust ICT infrastructures to function effectively.
A successful roadmap for smart services must outline a clear timeline that transitions from pilot programs to commercial implementation, highlighting effective solutions for deploying these services Essential indicators of an effective roadmap include the attractiveness, user-friendliness, and accessibility of smart services.
Local governments around the world are generally offering following smart services to their residents
- Greater control of street light poles, includes individual control, schedule- based control, and dimming Chinese Taipei reports 43 that this solution helps her to save about 30% manpower;
- Enhanced maintenance, includes usage monitor, defects and automatic maintenance process;
- Reduced cost by deploying Wi-Fi Mesh infrastructure, video surveillance
43 Chao Magie November 2019 Sustainable Smart Cities Deployment: Case Study of Chinese Taipei
Figure 21 Street light management in smart city
- Roll out necessary infrastructures such as NB-IoT, NB-LTE, Wi-Fi and 5G network;
- Install smart devices and cameras on light poles to monitor and control dimming and usage per each light point;
- Build an IoT platform to control applications
Smart parking service enables drivers to search, book and pay for parking spaces by directly using mobile applications
- Modernize car’s mobility by offering new services (parking guidance, contactless payment, information mobility);
- Improve rotation of vehicles on street parking;
Streamlining payment controls can enhance convenience and efficiency, as demonstrated in Singapore, where a mobile application offers an alternative to traditional paper parking coupons This innovative solution not only facilitates seamless payments but also enables users to extend their parking duration remotely, improving the overall parking experience.
- Strengthen linkage between car parking policy and convenience stores (promotion campaigns and tickets);
- Reduce time to find out space parking Chinese Taipei reports 44 that this solution helps to save up to 40% of parking space searching time and 10 % of traveling time
Figure 22 Parking car deployment in SSC
- Roll out infrastructures such as NB-IoT, NB-LTE, Wi-Fi and 5G network;
Installing sensors on sidewalk curbs enables real-time tracking of parking lot occupancy, indicating whether spaces are occupied or vacant, as well as whether occupied spots have been paid for These sensors operate on internal batteries, ensuring continuous communication with the server without the need for an external power supply.
- Install video cameras on parking spaces to monitor and analyze empty spaces and provide a real-time report to users;
- Build an IoT platform to control and monitor information collected by sensors;
- Develop mobile applications for contactless payment (Near Field Communications - NFC)
44 Chao Magie October 2019 Sustainable Smart Cities Deployment: Case Study of Chinese Taipei
- ‘Eye’ on live situations on road networks;
- Reduce time to detect incidents, verify and identity incident types, and hence manage incident times;
Figure 23 Smart traffic incident management in smart city
- Build infrastructures such as NB-IoT, NB-LTE, Wi-Fi and 5G network;
- Install sensors along with road networks;
- Install video cameras to verify incidents;
- Build an IoT platform to monitor and control applications via the Internet
- Reduce cost for waste collection, and reduce carbon emission;
- Define new contracts/Service Level Agreements - SLAs
Figure 24 Waste management in smart city
- Build infrastructures such as NB-IoT, NB-LTE, Wi-Fi and 5G network;
- Deploy sensors in recycling containers to monitor waste levels in real-time; send alerts and identify most appropriate collection methods based on volume and waste types;
- Build an IoT platform to monitor and control applications via the Internet
Figure 25 Environment management in smart city
- Provide valuable data for improving analytic applications and forecasting
- Build infrastructures such as NB-IoT, NB-LTE, Wi-Fi and 5G network;
- Install environment sensors to collect information about air, light, humidity, noise, etc Sensors used internal batteries to maintain communication with the server instead of power supply;
- Build an IoT platform to control application, monitor and analyze information collected by environment sensors
5 Enable Policies and Regulations for Smart Sustainable City Deployment
Sustainable Smart Cities (SSC) encompass various sectors, including economic development, environmental sustainability, technical standards, public utilities, and ICT infrastructures Implementing ICT infrastructures for SSC is a complex and costly endeavor that necessitates collaboration among central and local governments, residents, the private sector, startups, and academia Local, regional, and central governments play complementary and coordinated roles in this collaborative effort.
- Setting strategies for deploying effective ICT infrastructures with detail information about, inter alia, technologies, standards, spectrum, and timelines;
- Securing essential financial resources for development; engaging all stakeholders to participate into ICT infrastructures development process; and
Effective implementation of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) relies heavily on relevant policies and regulations To successfully merge urban planning with advanced high-tech infrastructures and systems, it is essential to streamline the current legal framework governing ICT infrastructures and construction, especially those regulations that pertain to these areas.
- Plan, strategy, and vision for SSC deployment;
- Personal data protection and sharing policy;
To effectively implement Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) in the APEC region, local governments must establish clear visions, plans, and strategies that align with broader governmental efforts This includes setting specific targets for the development of advanced ICT infrastructures, promoting infrastructure sharing, and advocating for tax reductions to support these initiatives.
Personal data protection and data sharing are crucial for the successful implementation of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) By sharing data collected from sensors, valuable insights can be harnessed Governments can establish platforms to share relevant data while ensuring privacy protection, allowing the private sector to develop applications and services based on this information However, safeguarding this data is essential To enhance data security, governments should implement effective and transparent measures, raise public awareness about data protection, and encourage stakeholder engagement through APEC-endorsed privacy frameworks, such as the APEC Privacy Framework and the APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) System.
Infrastructures sharing can be implemented based on commercial agreements among relevant entities and/or on regulatory mandates There are several types of
74 infrastructure sharing such as passive and active infrastructures sharing, spectrum sharing Various types of infrastructures sharing in mobile networks are illustrated in Figure 26
Infrastructure sharing in Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC) extends beyond mobile networks to include government-owned critical infrastructures such as energy, transportation, and water supply systems APEC economies like Canada and Malaysia have implemented legal frameworks to mandate the sharing of antenna towers and sites, while the United States allows voluntary infrastructure sharing without government intervention.
Consideration the Best Practices and Standards
A smart city leverages data and technology to benefit all its residents, emphasizing the integration of people and infrastructure for optimal functionality To enhance effectiveness, adopting consensus-based standards for interoperability is crucial, ensuring seamless operation within the city Many products and services are uniquely tailored to specific cities, making them challenging to replicate elsewhere By prioritizing best practices and open standards, cities can implement smart city solutions more affordably and reliably, as these solutions have been validated across various environments.
Figure 27 Key enable standards to SSC
No single standard can encompass all aspects of Smart Sustainable Cities (SSC), as various organizations like ISO, JTC1, ITU, and IEC have developed numerous standards that span from the services layer to the infrastructure layer Enhanced cooperation and coordination among these standards organizations can significantly aid cities and communities in implementing replicable and scalable smart city solutions Each economy has the flexibility to select appropriate standards for SSC based on its unique objectives, plans, and strategies.
Chapter Conclusion
Various strategies have been suggested and implemented to develop smart cities in the APEC region, with ICT infrastructures being crucial to these initiatives The smart services provided in urban areas leverage ICT to address challenges related to energy, socio-economic growth, and environmental sustainability Consequently, APEC economies must invest in robust ICT infrastructures that incorporate advanced technologies like IoT, 5G networks, and blockchain.
AI can enhance smart service center (SSC) development by utilizing various sensors tailored to specific functions, such as lighting and humidity sensors for monitoring environmental conditions However, local governments must prioritize their practical goals and manage resource constraints effectively when implementing SSC initiatives.
Cities vary in their shapes, sizes, and development levels, leading to diverse strategies and policies for Smart City Concept (SSC) implementation; however, all strategies must prioritize citizens and their needs A well-defined strategy, vision, and plan for building a smart city will optimize financial resource utilization, save time, mitigate risks, and enhance efficiency It is essential for both central and local governments to create policies that actively engage citizens in the SSC development process Additionally, the private sector plays a crucial role in this initiative, providing significant financial support to local governments through various cooperation models, such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Private Finance Initiatives (PFI).