THE WORLD’S SMARTEST CITIES
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s capital is undergoing a massive public transportation renaissance. For one thing, under the city’s Urban Renewal Project, officials have been constructing trams and commuter train lines to improve lower-end communities and social sustainability. But that’s not all: In 2017, it unveiled a 15-story smart parking system. The big, hoped-for payoff: All these projects will reduce the very severe urban congestion and help mitigate carbon emissions.
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
This Dutch metropolis is widely known as one of the world’s leading—and most innovative—smart cities. It has launched more than 150 green energy, transportation and urban planning projects. Also, in 2009 the Amsterdam Smart City was launched; it is an online platform where citizens, government officials and businesses can test smart-city projects.
Barcelona, Spain
About six years ago, Barcelona aimed to become the first smart city in Spain. It has come a long way. Since 2013, the city has implemented smart sensor systems, modern lighting technology and even a smart waste-disposal system. Barcelona is also widely known for its fuel-efficient hybrid bus system and a bike-sharing service.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Chicago is one of America’s most storied metropolises, and now one of its smartest. The Windy City is a leader in integrating “internet of things” technology with its infrastructure. One example: the installation of 270,000 smart street lights with all different types of sensors that quickly pay for themselves by saving energy.
