Developing smarter communities for urban growth

Source: BusinessWorld
Published on: 2026-06-19 02:00

Cities have stood as symbols of opportunity. They drew people seeking jobs, education, healthcare, and a chance at a better life. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) noted that urban areas generate roughly 80% of global gross domestic product, making them major contributors to economic growth and employment. The UNDP also reported that nearly 70% of the world's population will live in cities and towns by 2050. Much of that growth is expected to take place in Asia and Africa. Without effective planning, experts argued that urban expansion can lead to congestion, environmental degradation, inequality, and limited access to basic services. These realities have prompted policymakers to view smart community development as a strategy for addressing long-standing urban issues through better planning and stronger governance. The phrase "smart city" might bring to mind images of di...

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