Sustainable Urbanization
AI in Urban Governance and the Future of Human-Centric Cities: Interview with Svetlana Tešić
In this interview, Svetlana Tešić shares her expert perspective on AI in urban governance and the growing role of cities in shaping digital transformation. She discusses citizen trust, collaboration between municipalities, and the importance of human-centric approaches to technology. The conversation explores how European cities can use AI responsibly while strengthening democratic governance and public participation.
Read MoreAI in Urban Governance and the Future of Human-Centric Cities: Interview with Svetlana TešićNew York Moves Toward an All-Electric Buildings Law Amid Court Battles and Grid Concerns
New York is moving toward an all-electric buildings law that could end gas-powered systems in new construction. The proposal has sparked legal challenges and concerns over costs and grid readiness. The outcome may influence building electrification policies far beyond the state.
Read MoreNew York Moves Toward an All-Electric Buildings Law Amid Court Battles and Grid ConcernsAI-Powered Intelligent Transportation: How Changzhou Is Building a “Smooth City” System
Changzhou, Jiangsu province, China leverages AI to advance its intelligent transportation system. Key initiatives include the AI-driven “Cloud Bus,” which optimizes routes and reduces wait times, and smart toll stations that enable seamless, efficient vehicle passage. These efforts enhance public transport, cut costs, and improve urban mobility, supporting the city’s sustainable development goals.
Read MoreAI-Powered Intelligent Transportation: How Changzhou Is Building a “Smooth City” SystemThe New Energy Frontline:Energy Resilience in Central and Eastern Europe (II).
The second part of the article examines how cities shape energy resilience in Central and Eastern Europe, from managing rising demand to addressing energy poverty. It explores what local governments need — in policy, funding, and coordination — to turn urban energy systems into pillars of regional security.
Read MoreThe New Energy Frontline:Energy Resilience in Central and Eastern Europe (II).How Noise and Air Pollution Shape Healthier Cities: Interview with Milica Raičković
In this interview, Milica Raičković discusses how noise and air pollution affect public health and urban quality of life across Serbia and the Western Balkans. Drawing on insights from a major regional conference, she explains why systematic monitoring, interdisciplinary planning, and data-driven decision-making are essential for healthier cities.
Read MoreHow Noise and Air Pollution Shape Healthier Cities: Interview with Milica RaičkovićSustainable Holiday Celebrations in Cities: From Christmas Trees to Smart Urban Solutions
Holiday celebrations are placing growing pressure on urban environments through increased waste, energy consumption, and air pollution. This article examines the environmental implications of festive traditions, ranging from Christmas trees to fireworks, and demonstrates how sustainable holiday celebrations in cities can be promoted through intelligent technologies, data-driven planning, and informed consumer choices.
Read MoreSustainable Holiday Celebrations in Cities: From Christmas Trees to Smart Urban SolutionsSaaS Traffic Control in Xuchang: A New Model for Seamless Congestion Management
Xuchang (Henan province, China) tackled traffic congestion caused by surging tourism by implementing AI-powered SaaS traffic control system. This lightweight solution, deployed in two weeks at one-tenth the traditional cost, reduced intersection delays by 13.39% and improved rush hour speeds by 13-15%. Integrated smart parking further optimized mobility, demonstrating technology’s role in building efficient cities.
Read MoreSaaS Traffic Control in Xuchang: A New Model for Seamless Congestion ManagementHow Urban Data Governance in Europe Is Shaping the Future of Cities
This article examines how urban data governance in Europe is reshaping city development through regulatory frameworks, federated platforms, and mission-oriented data spaces. It explores how European cities leverage data to align climate, social, and digital objectives while addressing fragmentation, governance complexity, and uneven territorial capacities. The analysis highlights both the systemic potential and political challenges of scaling these models across Europe.
Read MoreHow Urban Data Governance in Europe Is Shaping the Future of CitiesWhen Communities Take Charge: Lessons from Güssing and Local Energy Independence
How can cities strengthen resilience while keeping energy value within their communities? This article explores the case of Güssing, a small Austrian town that achieved local energy independence through community-led renewables and smart governance. Its experience offers practical lessons for municipalities seeking sustainable energy systems and local economic renewal.
Read MoreWhen Communities Take Charge: Lessons from Güssing and Local Energy IndependenceHuman-Centric Smart Mobility: Ethical Dilemmas and Solutions in the Age of Intelligent Connectivity
: Smart transportation’s pursuit of efficiency raises ethical dilemmas: loss of driver control, data privacy concerns, and diminished social connectivity. Solutions include standardized human-machine interfaces, robust data governance, and technology-designed social interactions to preserve human-centric mobility.
Read MoreHuman-Centric Smart Mobility: Ethical Dilemmas and Solutions in the Age of Intelligent Connectivity