How technologically sound a city is has quickly become the new standard for which cities are judged internationally. A smart city is a connected city, one that uses technology to find efficient solutions and services for its citizens. Everyone is eager to rate these cities against one another and Fast Company is the latest to have its say. The organization has named Toronto one of the 10 smartest cities in North America.
In an article that ran earlier this month, Fast Company reported that "by 2050, 70% of the world's population" will live in cities. It cites solutions to growing populations as a key component of the continent's smartest cities.
Six key factors helped decide this year's winners. The study looked at smart people (21st century education, inclusive society, embrace creativity), smart economy (entrepreneurship and innovation, productivity, local and global interconnectedness), smart enviro (green buildings, green energy, green urban planning), smart gov (enabling supply and demand side policy, transparency and open data, ICT and eGov), smart living (healthy, safe, culturally vibrant and happy), and finally, smart mobility (mixed-model access, prioritized clean and non-motorized options, integrated ICT).
Here's what they said about Toronto:
"…Toronto continues to be a leader in Canada across several fronts. Like other major cities on this list, Toronto has continued its commitment to smart densification with its ongoing transformation of its previously contaminated waterfront area. In collaboration with IBM, Waterfront Toronto has launched phase one of newblueedge.ca to allow residents to have real-time web and mobile access to transit info and traffic congestion reports, public transit information, local weather and news reports as well as, in the near future, energy- and water-consumption data."
Seattle and Boston tied this year for the title of North America's smartest city. Seattle's startup scene and Boston's numerous universities were key factors.
For the full list of North America's smartest cities,
click here.
Original Source: Fast Company