Smart Cities

summary of criteria regarding the concept and comparative analysis between Belo Horizonte and Wuhan

Abstract

Objective: The concept of Smart City has long been considered a marketing tool for a neoliberal system. However, it is necessary to investigate the possibilities of applying this concept from another perspective. The objective of this study, therefore, is to shed light on a new way of interpreting the concept of Smart City, understanding the potential of introducing technology into sustainable urban development. In this sense, we aim to elucidate how some countries in the Global South, such as China and Brazil, have used this concept in their urban policies.

Methodology: To this end, we use comparative analysis methodology and, in conjunction with this, different tools to organize this research. 

Originality/relevance: The topic is relevant in that it explores a different—and little-investigated—way of approaching the subject of Smart Cities and their contributions to sustainable development, particularly in the field of urban planning and urban policies.

Results: The results achieved include a survey of policies and initiatives in two cities—Belo Horizonte and Wuhan—and the example that, in many cases, the application of the concept in question occurs independently of large technology companies (Big Techs) and can be included in a national development project, as is the case in China.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions: This work contributes to the theoretical and methodological field because, in addition to its relevance, it offers a perspective that has not yet been explored in the context of Smart Cities. Thus, it broadens the discussion and can add new possibilities not only for research, but also for innovation and development. Regarding methodology, the use of journal article analysis software and the organization of the data from this research present a potential for future qualitative/comparative analyses.

Social and Environmental Contributions: Sustainable development presupposes the combination of three main areas: social, economic, and environmental. Therefore, this work combines technology and urban planning with the aim of investigating solutions that improve the quality of life in cities in the Global South in the aforementioned aspects, increasing, for example, citizen participation, assertive responses to the challenges of climate change, and economic innovation.