Smart cities: the solution or part of the problem?

In May 2016, air pollution in parts of Amsterdam, Maastricht and Rotterdam reached hazardous levels, […]

Policy Brief

13/10/2017

In May 2016, air pollution in parts of Amsterdam, Maastricht and Rotterdam reached hazardous levels, breaking EU quality standards.

But only one month later, a new Dutch smart technology appeared: the Wi-Fi tree; a smart birdhouse that monitors air quality by changing colours. When air quality is good it glows green and as a reward, it offers citizens free Wi-Fi.

Intervention by Maria Kaika, Professor, Urban, Regional and Environmental Planning, University of Amsterdam delivered at the International Conference “Greece Forward III. Progressive Policies for the cities of today and tomorrow” (4th October 2017)

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