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Smarter eco-cities are intelligent urban environments that leverage cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) solutions to address and mitigate environmental challenges.
The integration of AIoT technologies lets these cities harness real-time data, optimize resource utilization, and implement innovative approaches for ecological conservation and resilience. This way they contribute to the creation of more sustainable and resilient urban ecosystems, finding a balance between technological advancement and environmental well-being.
According to Techxplore, a study published in Environmental Science and Ecotechnology claims that the gradual influence of data-driven technologies and solutions in smart cities has been reshaping the dynamics of eco-cities ever since the 2010s. This course is expected to continue as the technologies and solutions of smart cities (like AI, IoT, and Big Data) advance and integrate with sustainable technologies and strategies.
Subsequently, the ongoing growth of AI and AIoT applications contributes to the ongoing evolution of smart eco-cities, aiding them in pursuing their commitment to achieving environmental sustainability.
In response to the need for effective solutions, these technologies are expected to offer applications that not only overcome current challenges but also pave the way for sustained improvements. The more solutions are implemented, the higher the likelihood of their adoption, creating a cycle of positive impact on environmental sustainability efforts.
On the other hand, there are high energy demands associated with AI and AIoT applications to consider, especially when relying on non-renewable energy sources. The construction of smarter eco-cities involves the necessary consumption of substantial amounts of natural resources for the development, installation, and maintenance of AI and AIoT ecosystems. Furthermore, the life cycle of IoT and AI itself generates considerable amounts of e-waste, unsustainable materials, and toxic pollution.
Experts claim it is imperative to ensure the sustainable growth of AI, IoT, Big Data technologies, green computing, and eco-friendly design to address the potential disparities between the environmental aspirations of smarter eco-cities and the opportunities presented by AI and AIoT technologies.
The experts behind the study identify and evaluate critical challenges associated with environmental costs, privacy concerns regarding data collection and usage, cybersecurity risks in interconnected systems, public trust, and social acceptance. They also highlight challenges like limited technical expertise and knowledge, and the absence of regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible deployment of AI and AIoT.
This information was provided by Techxplore.
