Smart Sustainable Cities for the Arctic
While the Arctic faces unique challenges and opportunities, the concept of smart sustainable cities can be adapted and applied to promote sustainable development in this environmentally sensitive area. Technology and innovation play critical roles in supporting sustainable development in Arctic cities. By leveraging technology, embracing innovation, and incorporating local knowledge, Arctic cities can address their unique challenges and contribute to the broader goal of sustainable development in the region.
Smart Arctic cities differ in several ways due to the unique characteristics and challenges of the Arctic region, such as:
- Environmental considerations: Arctic cities face specific environmental challenges, such as extreme cold, permafrost, and limited access to resources.
- Indigenous knowledge and community involvement: It is important to incorporate indigenous knowledge and involving local communities in the development and implementation of smart city initiatives in the Arctic. Recognizing the cultural and social dimensions of sustainability is crucial, and engaging with indigenous communities can provide valuable insights and foster a more inclusive and locally relevant approach.
- Resilient infrastructure: Arctic cities must contend with the challenges posed by thawing permafrost and rising sea levels. There is a need for smart infrastructure designs that can withstand these impacts and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
- Connectivity and digital inclusion: The Arctic region faces unique challenges related to connectivity and digital inclusion due to its remote and sparsely populated nature. Expanding broadband internet access and promoting digital inclusion is critical to ensure that all residents have equal access to the benefits of smart city technologies.
- Collaboration and knowledge sharing: Initiatives such as the Arctic Smartness Cluster are mentioned as platforms for fostering cooperation, sharing best practices, and collectively addressing sustainability issues among Arctic cities facing similar challenges.
Reference:
Raspotnik, A., Grønning, R., & Herrmann, V. (2020). A tale of three cities: the concept of smart sustainable cities for the Arctic. Polar Geography, 43(1), 64-87.
