AI-Driven Smart Cities: Safer, Greener, and More Efficient

As smart cities become more reliant on digital transformation, the need for robust cybersecurity regulations is growing. There is a push for cybersecurity frameworks that help cities protect sensitive data across various areas, including public safety, utilities, and traffic management.

Cities are increasingly investing in smart infrastructure to improve service efficiency. There is a higher demand for surveillance technologies, such as facial recognition, leading to faster criminal identification thereby reducing crime rates.

UN research paper World Smart Cities Outlook 2024 reported that Barcelona has managed to reduce traffic congestion by 30%, shorten commute times, improve air quality, and increase the efficiency of public transport services by 15% thanks to their IoT-AI powered traffic management systems. 

Cities are also investing in more sophisticated cyber risk management frameworks, including incident response to deal with cyberattacks; this includes simulated cybersecurity exercises and the development of comprehensive disaster recovery plans to minimise downtime after a potential breach. The combination of computer vision, edge AI, real-time analytics, and 5G deployments is key to reshaping public infrastructure worldwide.

Many cities have adopted LED-based smart street lighting with motion sensors making them more energy efficient and reducing energy usage.

Shifting environmental climates require consistently adapting technology; Predictive models, powered by AI and machine learning, are being used to predict flooding risks by analysing rainfall patterns and weather conditions, thus providing early warning systems that give communities valuable time to evacuate or take preventive measures. Drones equipped with thermal sensors are also increasingly used in wildfire detection, flying over affected areas, identifying hot spots and providing aerial views to operational teams in real time.

These trends reflect a growing recognition of the need for cybersecurity and the latest IoT-AI technology to manage the complexities and risks of smart cities. By setting these foundations, cities aim to foster safe, secure, and resilient urban environments in an increasingly connected world.

Anthony Roy, Senior Analyst, Beecham Research