The Role of IoT in the Development of Smart Cities

All cities were traditional before the internet’s arrival. Tasks were completed in the same manner— by hard work—and individuals thought in the same customary manner. However, as technology advanced, the situation changed. The concept of smart cities gained traction and is now a significant project in the works.

In simple terms, a smart city is one that is digital, intelligent, and sustainable. Most significantly, it must be “livable” for everybody. New York, Singapore, and London are among the world’s most smart cities. And one thing that all of these smart cities have in common is that they are technologically advanced ahead of others. Technology is not only employed widely in these Smart Cities but it is also used “smartly.”

In all of these cities, the internet is extensively available. The “Smart City dream” has come true thanks to ISPs like Spectrum Internet, Verizon Fios, and AT&T, to mention a few. Spectrum, in particular, is a smart ISP that continues to expand, now servicing more than 80% of the United States and looking ahead to a 10G future. When it comes to ISPs, Spectrum Internet is an excellent choice. All such ISPs are making every city they cover, smarter in every aspect.

Furthermore, the Internet is the single most important technology in the creation of these Smart Cities. When we think about Smart Cities, the first thing that springs to mind is the Internet of Things (IoT). So, what exactly is the role of the Internet of Things in the development of Smart Cities? Read on to know.

Improved Efficiency of City’s Utilities

Energy shortage is one of the biggest issues in the world today. Not only is the consumer demand for energy increasing, but the prices are on a similar hike. So where does IoT fits in this picture?

From Smart meters to smart grids, smart and sustainable energy production, to consumer satisfaction, IoT technology can make a huge difference when it comes to managing a city’s utilities. Smart meters not only keep track of your energy consumption in real-time but can collect and use this data and integrate it for all the households to estimate the energy usage of the whole city. This will help in sustainable energy generation, and the near real-time data will lead to a better distribution of energy resources.

Development of Smart Transportation System

The transportation system is an integral part of city life due to larger distances. We also use public transportation more frequently. The Internet of Things has the potential to improve the transportation system by giving real-time traffic data and more correctly calculating bus and train arrival and departure times.

Furthermore, IoT traffic lights are equipped with specific sensors that allow them to reduce traffic congestion by altering traffic signals in response to the flow of vehicles on the road.

Overall, the IoT traffic management system is more efficient in managing city traffic which leads to a smooth flow of vehicles on the road and eventually a lower consumption of fuel.

Improving Waste Management System

According to World Bank’s data, the world produces around 2 billion tonnes of solid garbage every year and more than 30% of it is not even managed in an environmentally sound manner.

Smart dumpsters can help alert the garbage collecting truck drivers of the level of the nearby garbage bins to better manage the waste in their areas and also track their routes for garbage collection.

Overall IoT assisted waste management has a promising future. It can enhance customer experience and reduce carbon footprint.

Development of Smart Infrastructure

Smart infrastructure is a cyber-physical system that uses technology to deliver an integrated management system that meets sustainability, efficiency, and security objectives. A smart infrastructure uses IoT sensors to gather and analyze data so that it may make choices based on a feedback loop. The goal of such infrastructure is to improve the user experience, increase sustainability, and increase overall efficiency.

A smart infrastructure incorporates automated lighting, air conditioning, and elevator systems, as well as other utilities, resulting in efficient resource use and cost savings.

Improves Air Quality

There are many ways IoT can improve the air quality of a city. By improving the public transport system, IoT encourages people to opt for such modes of transportation instead of relying on their private vehicles, and consuming a lower amount of fuel. As a consequence, the carbon footprint and hazardous gas emissions are reduced.

IoT aids in the development of electric cars, which reduces the emission of dangerous gases and, as a result, improves air quality.

Finally, but most crucially, IoT sensors for assessing air quality can aid in environmental improvement by alerting users to the presence of dangerous substances in the atmosphere. As a result, anytime the air quality falls below a certain threshold, IoT sensors will alert the individuals in the area. This aids in the improvement of procedures and processes in sectors, particularly the healthcare industry.

To Wrap it all up,

IoT is a cutting-edge technology that has gotten a lot of attention in the last decade because of the multiple benefits it provides and the bright future it holds in a variety of aspects of our lives. One of the great gifts of the internet and its linked technology, IoT, is Smart City. From Improving the efficiency of the city’s utilities to improving our transportation system to improving the waste management system and helping in controlling the air quality, IoT has the potential to improve our life.