The role of geological data in the SMART city agenda

Advances in the use of GIS and 3D modelling software have meant that there is now a greater opportunity to develop geo-environmental information systems for urban development, argues Dr Katherine Royse of BGS. By 2050, 70% of the world’s population will be living in cities. Cities have a major impact on the social and economic development of nations. They consume 75% of the world’s resources. This evolution raises a very important change with regard to the deployment and management of all types of infrastructures within cities. The sustainable development of our cities is of paramount importance if cities are to cope with the impacts of climate change, population growth, congestion and resource demands. One solution to these issues is to make cities smart, which means being connected and integrated with confidence and precision – that means knowing where you, your people, assets, sensors and systems are. Smart isn’t always about technology. It’s about having efficient and effective systems that improve the quality of life for everyone. A city can be defined as ‘smart’ when investments in human and social capital, traditional (transport) and modern (ICT) communication infrastructure fuel sustainable economic development and a high quality of life, with wise management of natural resources, through participatory action and engagement.