We’re back to discuss more of the telecom market’s hot topics, which you can use as a reference to success together with C&W Networks. According to a study by the United Nations, for the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population lives in cities. By 2050, this figure is expected to reach 70%, or six billion people. For this reason, there is increasing pressure to transform our cities into smart cities, which represents an opportunity for the governments and citizens of Latin America and the Caribbean, but also for us as members of the telecommunications industry.
With the emergence of digital technology, the Internet and mobile technologies, this transformation is becoming increasingly viable. Nonetheless, not all countries are equally prepared to start down that path. By working together, we can make our region a part of a connected future.
When we talk about smart cities, we’re referring to the model that brings together the initiatives needed to make a city more sustainable, participatory and efficient with a better quality of life for its residents. This paradigm is based on three essential driving forces; innovation, technology and people. Despite its importance, technology is just one tools of many and it must be linked to planning and management processes. Innovation is needed to address changing consumption patterns which it brings us new ideas and ways to interact.
A city’s population forms a large part of these smart cities. These are places defined by their history, culture and their people. Changes in urban models cannot occur without considering the people who bring the city to life. The most important element of a smart city, both in terms of the use of urban services and participation in building the city itself, must be its residents.
Public-private collaboration is also essential. A smart city is one of those places that long term visions make the environment of people the heart and the planning of an innovative idea. It focuses on public transportation, the use of public spaces, prioritizes public safety, utilities, emergency response, the availability of clean water resources for future generations, and citizen participation within the city. A smart city uses technology as a tool to develop a vision and long-term goals. It also becomes appealing not only to its residents, but also to employers and workers generate a safer space that’s capable of promoting the development of creative solutions, creating jobs and reducing inequality. Smart cities offer endless opportunities for businesses and it’s important that we understand how to maintain them.
The path towards creating a smart city was first thought of a while ago, but there are some regions that are still comprehending this idea. The path toward smart cities was first laid some time ago; however, there are regions in which it takes a few more twists and turns. For this reason, the Inter-American Development Bank is gradually unveiling action plans for towns in Latin America and the Caribbean, paving the way for their transformation into smart cities. Urban sustainability, environmental sustainability, the difficulties of climate change, the governance and fiscal sustainability are the reasons of this transformation.
There is no doubt that Latin America is ready to make some solid changes, but for all the region’s countries to achieve these goals; the people, governments, the private sector, civil society and technology must join forces to make smart cities a reality.
We invite you to assist us on this journey of innovation and creativity. Let’s grow our businesses together. Strength and brilliances lies in the numbers.
