The first step in design strategies for adaptation is to collect information. There are multiple methods of data collection, including many types of equipment, from tidal gauges to satellite remote sensors. There are also more ways of analysing and presenting this data using sophisticated computer graphics programs, known as geographic information systems (GIS). Technological innovation [...]
It is the case of gas to liquids, for example, switching to alternative fuels. Electric and LPG offer separate fuel systems, but there are other options offering the potential to clean up the existing diesel. One example is the new synthetic gas to liquid (GTL) fuel developed by Shell, derived from natural gas. The use [...]
The growth of urban air pollution is one of the most serious indicators of the impact of global urbanization on the environment and human health. The rapid urbanization, with the associated economic and population growth, has led to increases in vehicle use, industrial activity and energy consumption that have raised urban air pollution to critical [...]
Traditionally, energy savings has been a driver for building management globally. Gradually, energy benefits are becoming secondary to operational efficiency and non-energy benefits such as occupancy analytics, air quality and worker productivity. In this sense, space utilization is becoming the significant differential metric particularly in the commercial building market. As employees increasingly work from home, [...]
Citizen engagement is a complementary aspect of smart cities related to the support of greater engagement in an attempt to tap into the collective intelligence of cities as well as better understanding their daily acts and needs. Currently, a bigger priority in energy efficiency-oriented training and promotion activities is given to the implementation of modern [...]
Smart cities are based on well connected, sustainable, and resilient technologies allowing the information to be available and findable. Significant amounts of data are generated and two key trends make this data collection and availability possible: Internet of Things (IoT) and Open Data. All the smart solutions in smart cities are based on IoT where [...]
An alternative to cleaning up emissions from vehicles directly could be to deploy technologies which remove pollution from the ambient air. For example, a number of companies are developing photo-catalytic treatments which remove pollutants from the air in the presence of sunlight. These treatments can be applied to a range of surfaces, for example roofing [...]
Autonomous driving, connected vehicles, electrification, ride-sharing, and mass-transit systems are set to change the face of mobility in cities 11. Zero-emission vehicles are attributed to the transportation options not resulting in harmful emissions during vehicle operation. Typical examples are electric (battery-powered) vehicles and trains, hydrogen-fuelled vehicles, and human/animal powered transportation. The battery technology for electric [...]
The environmental change affects cities and their inhabitants more regularly, bringing new challenges for city planners. Among those, there is a need to improve air and water quality and control noise pollution looking to create a healthy and enjoyable environment for city inhabitants. For that, environmental monitoring and management is gaining importance, as understanding and [...]
What is smart specialisation (strategy), and why is it important? The Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) is a policy concept developed as an instrument for boosting national or regional innovation, specifically focused on the strengths and the competitive advantages of a region, through enhancement of partnerships between businesses, public entities, and knowledge institutions. Registered countries and [...]
