BARCELONA SINGAPORE
HELSINKI COPENHAGEN
The World ’ s Smartest Cities
If you need inspiration for using technology differently , spin the globe . These four cities are identified as some of the smartest based on six key segments — a smart economy , government , people , living , mobility , and environment . The takeaway ? Cities that raise the bar with forward-thinking designs , environments , and infrastructures are positioned for positive growth .
Tech that makes travel a breeze Ready to jet set ? Here are two tools to check out before you leave .
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BARCELONA . As Europe ’ s innovation capital , this city in Spain is host to the largest Smart Cities event . Barcelona ’ s leaders strive to maintain balance between innovation and preserving the culture and quality of life . Its Smart Cities program boasts 22 initiatives , including increasing access to public WiFi , moving toward energy self-sufficiency , and supporting the city ’ s growing elderly population by closing the gaps that connect them to the care they need .
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COPENHAGEN . Renewable energy , bicycling infrastructure , and green building only scratch the surface of this city ’ s smart initiatives . Copenhagen has long been a leader in creating people-focused spaces , from the transportation drive to reduce vehicle traffic to expanding green spaces and alternative energy sources . This city ranked highly in the “ smart people ” category that shows dedication to social inclusion , education , and creativity .
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HELSINKI . This city has been on the leading edge of cities that use transparent and open data sources . They have more than 1,200 open data sets — open access to free , unpatented , and uncopyrighted information — and more than 100 applications that use the data for analysis . Digital technology thrives here — all residential and commercial buildings have smart meters , and more than two-thirds of commercial buildings rely on automation systems for smarter energy usage .
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SINGAPORE . Built-in incentives to reduce personal vehicle use and boost public transportation are only one piece of the puzzle in this city-state . Smart initiatives are in place at nearly every level , including a commitment to making almost all government services accessible online , greening infrastructure , and developing a high number of certified green buildings nationally .
> TSA Pre� ®. Join the 1 million passengers who can move through airport security without flinching . This trusted traveler program allows individuals to go through security at 133 U . S . airports without removing shoes , outerwear , or a belt . Interested candidates must complete an application and receive a Known Traveler Number , good for five years , that enables them to bypass long lines for security screenings . Keep your laptop in its case and proceed to your gate , please . Visit tsa . gov to register .
> Google Translate . Stop stumbling over your order in Italian while traveling . The Google app translates in real-time like a handheld interpreter . Thanks to Word Lens technology , snap a photo of a sign in a different language and get a translation for it in 36 languages . The app will provide a real-time , instant translation — even without an Internet or data connection — from the camera in up to seven languages .
SHUTTERSTOCK / LUCIANO MORTULA ; JAROSLAV MORAVCIK ; JULIA SHEPELEVA ; LEUNG CHOPAN
20 | SNB . COM // CONNECT TECHNOLOGY SUMMER 2015