At the vibrant intersection of art and technology, Re:Humanism stands as a pioneering project, exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on contemporary art. Founded in 2018, this biennial award goes beyond celebrating the creative potential of new technologies, delving deeply into the ethical, social, and cultural questions they raise.

We had the privilege of interviewing Daniela Cotimbo, art historian and curator, who guided us through the genesis, evolution, and future of Re:Humanism. Below is the full interview, where Daniela shares her vision, highlights of past editions, and the challenges awaiting the next chapter of this unique initiative.

"Re:Humanism brings art and artificial intelligence into a unique dialogue. What was the initial idea behind the project, and how has it evolved over time?"

Re:Humanism was born in 2018 from a collaboration between me, an art historian and curator, and Alfredo Adamo, now CEO of Frontiere, with the aim of offering reflections on the advancements of techno-science, particularly AI. The first edition of the prize was a success, with significant participation from artists and audiences and thought-provoking discussions. This encouraged us to continue, establishing the prize as a biennial event and creating a cultural association.

Today, Re:Humanism seeks to maintain its focus even between prize editions, organizing activities such as exhibitions, performances, debates, workshops, and the production of publications.

"Looking back at past editions of the Re:Humanism Art Prize, which projects or works impressed you the most, and why? How did these pieces embody the spirit of the prize?”

It’s always difficult to single out specific projects from a collection where every piece was chosen to enhance the initiative’s goals. That said, I’ll highlight a few projects that have sparked new perspectives and collaborations.

In the first edition, Adversarial feelings by Lorem comes to mind—a project that, even in 2018-2019, experimented with generative neural networks to explore emotional states as audiovisual flows. This was Lorem’s first project using AI, and it led to further collaborations, including a publication with his Krisis Publishing house. 

The second edition, held in the immediate post-pandemic period, focused heavily on our relationship with nature and other living species. A standout project was Epitaphs for the Human Artist by Numero Cromatico, a multidisciplinary research center in neuroaesthetics. Their work included an installation and a publication of poems generated by a neural network trained to create epitaphs—poetic forms presented alongside a study on primary colors, highlighting the evocative power of "alien" poetry.

From the third edition, I’d mention Ai Love, Ghosts and Uncanny Valleys <3 . I Broke up with my Ai and will never download them again by Mara Oscar Cassiani. This project offered a poignant reflection on toxic relationships mediated by social platforms, affective chatbots, and customizable avatars. The participatory installation allowed visitors to interact with discarded, sexualized avatars through cushions on a fake grass setup, addressing digital exploitation while also offering resources to combat online abuse.

These are just a few of the many projects that have enriched our experience over the years. Some are even part of the collection hosted at Frontiere’s headquarters in Rome.

"The Re:Humanism Art Prize invites contemporary artists to engage with AI-related themes. What can we expect this year? What is the theme for the 2025 edition? What are the main selection criteria, and what kind of dialogue do you aim to foster with the public through these creations? When and where will the selected works be exhibited?"

Compared to previous years, this edition of Re:Humanism will take a more specific approach, delving into some of the issues surrounding new artificial intelligence models, commonly known as LLMs. Artists will be invited to reflect on their creative potential, explore how AI can be utilized from feminist and decolonial perspectives, and address the theme of sustainability.

It’s a significant challenge that, in our view, aligns with the growing accessibility of tools enabling everyone to test both the potential and risks of this technology.

The selection process will remain the same: a mixed jury composed of experts in contemporary art, media art, and advanced technologies will evaluate proposals based on the quality of the submission, the robustness of the project and the artist, originality, and thematic sensitivity.

There will also be some new developments regarding the awards, which we are not yet ready to announce. However, we can confirm that the exhibition will be hosted by Fondazione Pastificio Cerere and will take place in June 2025.

"How is AI redefining the role of artists and the creative process? What challenges and opportunities do you see for the future of art in relation to technology?"

I see challenges for everyone, but I see art as an opportunity to face them! I’m quite critical of the debate that fascinates many, namely the interference between human artists and AI as a creative entity.

AI is undoubtedly changing how we conceive and produce art—and, as always with new technologies, this is both good and bad. On the positive side, AI expands expressive possibilities, even for those who might not be entirely comfortable with visual or digital media.

On the other hand, it’s often forgotten that behind the magic of a prompt lies a learning and generative process that operates with autonomous, recursive dynamics, often marked by biases, errors, and other dysfunctions. Not settling for results and learning to observe them critically is essential for the proper use of AI in the artistic field, and this is the invitation we extend to all artists.

Another important point: reflecting on AI has taught me that the future that matters most to me isn’t the one I can predict, but the one I can build.

"Re:Humanism tackles ethical and social issues related to AI. What are the most pressing implications that art can help us better understand?"

We are living in a rather dark era, where disinformation and echo chambers are increasingly driving polarization and radicalization of opinions.

This phenomenon is rooted in a burdensome history of discrimination that has, for years, shaped technological advancements.  

Techno-scientific progress is not neutral; it is created by people who often design from asymmetric perspectives and objectives. While some issues related to AI are not new, it continues to present significant problems, including discrimination against women, non-conforming individuals, and people of diverse ethnic and social backgrounds. These challenges become even more dangerous when we lose the ability to trace their origins.  

Advanced interfaces of large language models (LLMs) allow us to generate increasingly sophisticated and realistic content using natural language. The problem will arise when these tools are fully integrated into search engines, potentially excluding non-repetitive but culturally diverse results.  

We also know that many big tech companies that pledged to meet sustainability goals —regarding energy consumption, resource use, and CO2 emissions—are failing to achieve these targets, largely due to the demands of artificial intelligence.  

This raises an urgent question: how can we design technologies that do not further endanger the planet's health and well-being but instead provide solutions to mitigate the damage already done?  

How can art help us? Artists have never stopped questioning these issues, although today they are asked to pay greater attention to the context surrounding them. Advanced technologies represent new forms of language that shape our experience, and major themes like time, space, intimacy, relationships, and memory have evolved in response to these discoveries.  

Artists can amplify this perspective because they have the unique ability to delve into the heart of these issues, overturn established viewpoints, and, more often than not, act as outstanding inventors.  

The importance of an ongoing dialogue

Re:Humanism is more than an award—it’s a platform for questioning the potential and limits of AI through the critical lens of contemporary art. The challenges faced by artists today are not just about creative experimentation but also about building a more inclusive, sustainable, and conscious technological future.

To learn more about Re:Humanism and the 2025 edition, follow our blog and official project channels. Stay connected to explore how art and technology can come together to redefine our perception of the world.

Digital Transformation is one of the most discussed topics of our time, a phenomenon that has evolved conceptually over decades. From the initial attempts at digitization in the 1960s to the Web 2.0 era and the current widespread adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, the pillars that drive this transformation have adapted and expanded to meet the changing needs of organizations.

This article explores, on one hand, the history of digital transformation pillars, analyzing their evolution and the theories shaping their development. On the other hand, it delves into the essential pillars driving today’s successful transformations.

A historical overview of Digital Transformation Pillars

1960s–70s: digitalizing basic operations

In the 1960s and 1970s, digital transformation was synonymous with automation and the computerization of core business processes. Companies replaced manual ledgers with computer systems, often relying on large mainframes.

A landmark example is the IBM System/360, launched in 1964, which allowed businesses to standardize digital processes at scale. The key pillars during this era were:

• Operational automation: Early technologies focused on reducing manual errors and boosting efficiency.
• Efficiency: Processing large amounts of data rapidly became a competitive edge.

Frederick P. Brooks Jr., in The Mythical Man-Month (1975), highlighted the complexities of managing large-scale technology projects, laying the groundwork for more deliberate approaches to digital transformations.

1990s: Internet and digital models

The advent of the internet in the 1990s sparked a new wave of innovation, extending digitization beyond internal processes to customer and partner interactions. The era’s key pillars included:

• Customer experience: Businesses began using the web to offer personalized services and enhance customer relationships. Amazon, founded in 1994, exemplified how digital tools could redefine shopping experiences.
• Technological integration: Systems like ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) unified data and processes across organizations.

Clayton Christensen’s concept of “disruption” in The Innovator’s Dilemma (1997) emphasized the necessity of embracing innovative technologies to stay competitive.

2000s: mobility and cloud computing

The rise of smartphones and cloud technologies enriched digital transformation pillars:

• Agility: Cloud technologies enabled businesses to scale operations quickly and adapt to market needs.
• Mobile-first approach: Providing mobile access to digital services became essential to remain competitive.

Nicholas Carr’s Does IT Matter? (2003) raised the issue of how IT could lose its strategic value if not implemented distinctively, underscoring the importance of tailored solutions.

2010 to present: data and Artificial Intelligence

In recent years, the focus has shifted to leveraging data strategically and adopting emerging technologies:

• Data-driven decision making: Successful companies use data to make informed decisions. For instance, Netflix employs algorithms to predict user preferences and develop targeted content.
• Emerging technologies: Blockchain, IoT, and AI have become integral to modern strategies.

McKinsey highlights that only 30% of digital transformations achieve tangible results, emphasizing the need for a clear vision and well-defined pillars.

Today’s Pillars of Digital Transformation

1. Leadership and strategy

Digital transformation demands strong leadership and a well-defined strategy. Leaders must identify digital opportunities and translate them into actionable business objectives.

An interesting example is Starbucks, which, under the leadership of Kevin Johnson, introduced a digitalization strategy integrating mobile apps, digital payments, and data-driven personalization, enhancing customer experience and increasing loyalty.

2. Talent and organizational culture

People are at the heart of digital transformation. A culture that fosters continuous learning, collaboration, and openness to change is crucial.

According to a Deloitte study, companies that invest in employee training are 37% more likely to successfully complete their digital transformation.
Take the case of Adobe, which shifted its business model from traditional software licenses to a cloud-based subscription system. This transition was accompanied by significant investment in employee training and the development of a customer-oriented culture.

3. Data and Artificial Intelligence

Data underpins modern strategic decisions. Companies leveraging advanced analytics and AI can anticipate market trends and respond to customer needs more effectively.

A significant example is Heineken, which leverages data analysis to optimize advertising campaigns and logistics, improving product distribution based on local demand.

4. Agility and innovation

The ability to adapt quickly is vital in today’s business environment. Agile methodologies and design thinking empower companies to experiment with new ideas and bring solutions to market rapidly.

For example, Tesla adopts an agile approach to introduce innovations in its vehicles at record speed, often outperforming traditional competitors.

5. Sustainability and social impact

Today, sustainability is an essential pillar of digital transformation. Companies cannot overlook the environmental and social impact of their operations.

Patagonia is a shining example: it uses digital technologies to optimize its supply chain and reduce waste, demonstrating how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. Another noteworthy example is IKEA, which has invested in technologies to optimize energy management in its stores and improve material traceability, ensuring a more sustainable lifecycle for its products.

Conclusion

Digital transformation is an ongoing journey, driven by pillars that have evolved to address the challenges of each era. From the operational automation of the 1960s to today’s data-driven ecosystems, the pillars reflect a shift toward holistic approaches that prioritize people, processes, and societal impact.

In the modern era, the pillars of digital transformation go beyond technology to encompass leadership, culture, innovation, and sustainability. Organizations mastering these elements will not only adapt to change but thrive in an ever-evolving world.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI), 2024 marks a pivotal moment for the governance of this revolutionary technology. The announcement of Huderia, an innovative tool for assessing the risks and impacts of AI systems, underscores the Council of Europe’s Artificial Intelligence Committee (CAI)’s commitment to responsible and transparent regulation.

What is Huderia?

Huderia, officially unveiled on December 11, 2024, is a tool designed to guide governments, companies, and organizations in assessing risks associated with the use of AI systems. This framework builds on the fundamental principles of the Framework Convention on AI, adopted by the Council of Europe in May 2024, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that AI is developed and used in respect of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

Huderia offers a systematic approach to identifying risks to human rights, evaluating the social and economic impact of AI technologies, and ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.

Why is Huderia important?

The introduction of Huderia is a significant step toward more robust and inclusive AI governance. In a global context where technology is often implemented without adequate oversight, Huderia provides a structured framework to mitigate risks and maximize AI’s benefits.

Some key aspects of Huderia's importance include the following:

1. Protecting human rights: Huderia places fundamental rights at the core, aiming to prevent discrimination, privacy violations, and other negative impacts.
2. Building trust: By offering clear and transparent guidance, Huderia helps build trust among citizens, institutions, and AI developers.
3. Aligning with European values: The tool reflects Europe’s commitment to responsible innovation based on ethical and regulatory principles.

The role of CAI in 2024

Huderia’s launch is just one of many milestones achieved by the Artificial Intelligence Committee throughout the year. Under the Council of Europe’s guidance, the CAI has worked on multiple fronts to ensure effective AI governance, including adopting the Framework Convention on AI, which establishes principles and guidelines for member states to promote harmonized, rights-oriented regulation. The CAI has also fostered international cooperation, facilitating dialogue among governments, international organizations, and tech companies to address global AI challenges. In addition, the CAI has supported practical tools like Huderia while creating operational guidelines and implementation frameworks to assist member states in adhering to the convention. Furthermore, the CAI has launched initiatives to educate citizens and professionals about AI’s risks and opportunities.

Our contribution: Frontiere and a shared vision

As the Frontiere team, we have followed the work of CAI with great interest and engagement, recognizing in Huderia an approach that deeply resonates with our vision, which is also central to the associations we co-lead: Re:Humanism and Sloweb. As an entity committed to developing responsible technological solutions, we share with CAI the goal of balancing innovation with respect for human rights.

Huderia inspires us to continue developing tools and frameworks that integrate ethical principles, sustainability, and transparency. We believe our approach, which focuses on identifying risks and promoting trust in decision-making processes, complements the framework outlined by CAI.

Our vision is to build a future where AI’s benefits are equitably distributed and accessible to all, helping bridge the digital divide and addressing the ethical and social challenges posed by technology. Collaboration with institutional and private stakeholders is essential to realizing this vision, ensuring that technology remains a driver of equitable and sustainable progress.

• Shared approach to risk: Our work emphasizes analyzing and mitigating AI-related risks, combining advanced technology with responsible governance.
• Inclusion and sustainability: Like CAI, we aspire to a future where AI’s benefits are accessible to everyone, leaving no one behind.
• Collaboration and transparency: Our mission aligns with CAI’s goal of fostering trust through clear and open processes.

Looking Ahead

Huderia represents a turning point in AI governance, and we are eager to see how it will shape the work of global stakeholders and what the next steps will be toward more responsible and inclusive AI governance. At Frontiere, we will continue to closely monitor these developments, contributing our approach and vision to the global dialogue on ethical and sustainable technology.

Introduction

In modern cities, parking management is one of the most pressing challenges for governments, citizens and businesses. Searching for a parking space not only causes stress and frustration, but also contributes to traffic and pollution. To address these problems, technology is transforming the way we park through Smart Parking systems. These systems integrate advanced technologies to make parking more efficient, sustainable, and convenient. In this article, we will explore what Smart Parking is, how it works, its benefits, and the challenges of its implementation.

What is Smart Parking?

Smart Parking is a system that uses advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, mobile apps, and artificial intelligence to improve parking management. These systems can monitor parking space availability in real time, guide drivers to free parking spaces, optimize space use, and facilitate electronic payment.

How does Smart Parking work?

A Smart Parking system generally includes:

Sensors: installed in parking lots, the sensors detect whether a parking space is occupied or vacant;

IoT platforms: data collected by the sensors is sent to a central platform that processes and analyzes it;

Mobile apps: parking availability information is sent to users via mobile apps, allowing them to find and reserve free spaces in real time;

Payment systems: mobile apps often integrate electronic payment systems, making the payment process faster and cashless;

Data analysis: using artificial intelligence and data analysis, Smart Parking systems can predict parking demand and optimize space allocation;

Benefits of Smart Parking

Adopting a Smart Parking system offers numerous benefits for cities, motorists, and the environment:

Reduced traffic: with less time spent searching for a parking space, city traffic is significantly reduced;

Improved air quality: less traffic means fewer emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, helping to improve air quality;

Convenience for users: motorists can find parking more easily and pay quickly and easily through mobile apps;

Operational efficiency: cities can better manage parking resources, optimizing space use and reducing operational costs;

Analysis and planning: collected data can be used to analyze parking use patterns and improve urban planning.

Challenges of Smart Parking

Despite the many benefits, the implementation of Smart Parking presents some challenges:

Upfront costs: installing sensors, IoT platforms, and supporting infrastructure requires a significant initial investment;

Technology integration: integrating different existing technologies and systems can be complex and requires coordinated management;

Maintenance: sensors and technological infrastructure require regular maintenance to ensure proper operation;

User acceptance: the deployment of Smart Parking requires users to be willing to adopt new technologies and payment methods;

Data security: data collection and management require attention to user security and privacy.

Examples of Smart Parking implementation.

Many cities around the world are successfully adopting Smart Parking systems. Here are some examples:

San Francisco: the SFpark project uses wireless sensors to monitor parking space availability and provide real-time information to drivers via mobile apps;

Barcelona: Barcelona has implemented a Smart Parking system that includes sensors, mobile apps and electronic payments to improve the efficiency of urban parking;

Stockholm: the city has adopted a Smart Parking system that uses advanced technologies to manage public parking and reduce traffic congestion.

Future of Smart Parking

The future of Smart Parking is promising, with continuous innovations and technological improvements. The use of autonomous vehicles could further revolutionize parking, with cars parking themselves in optimized spaces. In addition, integration with smart grids and shared mobility solutions could make parking systems even more efficient and sustainable.

Conclusion

Smart Parking represents an innovative solution to address parking challenges in modern cities. Through the use of advanced technologies, these systems improve efficiency, reduce traffic and pollution, and offer greater convenience for motorists. Despite the challenges, the implementation of Smart Parking can transform urban mobility, helping to create more livable and sustainable cities. As technology continues to advance, the future of Smart Parking promises further improvements and innovations, making our cities even smarter.

If you would like to learn more about Smart Parking and find out how we have overcome the critical issues associated with this now must-have innovation for our cities, please contact us using the form at the bottom of this page.

Introduction

The United Nations predicts that by 2050, two-thirds of the world's population will reside in urban areas. In Europe, this trend is even more pronounced, with 75 percent of citizens already living in cities, according to Eurostat. This rapid urbanization puts a strain on existing infrastructure and management systems, highlighting the need for innovative solutions. The Smart Cities emerge as a response to these challenges, aiming to transform urban areas into centers of sustainability and efficiency through advanced technologies, particularly the Internet of Things (IoT).

Cities, although they occupy only 2-3% of the earth's surface, are responsible for 70% of carbon dioxide emissions and significant energy consumption. This high concentration of people and activities makes them a major contributor to climate change. Therefore, the challenge is to effectively integrate people, infrastructure and technologies to minimize environmental impact and improve the quality of urban life.

IoT as a Solution

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a strategic and promising solution to address complex urban issues. With its ability to automate data collection and analysis, IoT facilitates timely and informed decisions, substantially improving various aspects of urban life.

Quality of Life

IoT sensors play a crucial role in continuous environmental monitoring. They collect real-time data on air quality, tracking and measuring all substances that may be harmful to humans. Similarly, sensors installed in water networks monitor water quality, detecting contamination and pH changes in real time, thus ensuring access to safe water resources. In urban settings, noise pollution sensors help identify areas where noise exceeds recommended limits, enabling administrators to take action, such as creating traffic-restricted zones. Another significant example is the use of sensors in garbage collectors to monitor their filling, thus optimizing collection routes and reducing emissions from service vehicles.

Traffic and transportation.

Urban traffic management benefits greatly from IoT technologies. Sensors and cameras installed along roads collect data on traffic flow, congestion and accidents, facilitating dynamic traffic light management to optimize travel times. IoT applications allow drivers to view real-time maps of available parking spaces, helping reduce the time spent looking for a spot. In addition, the integration of IoT sensors in public transportation gives operators the ability to monitor the status of vehicles and intervene promptly in case of anomalies or delays, thus ensuring a more reliable and efficient service.

Smart lighting

Urban lighting is another area that benefits from IoT adoption. Light and motion sensors can adjust the intensity of light in streets based on the actual presence of people or vehicles, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing light pollution. This not only saves energy, but also improves visual comfort and safety at night.

Public safety

IoT contributes significantly to improving urban safety through integrated video surveillance and advanced sensor systems. These systems enable faster and more effective detection and response to emergency situations. For example, smart cameras can analyze real-time video streams to recognize suspicious behavior or dangerous situations, such as sudden gatherings or traffic accidents, automatically triggering appropriate emergency responses.

Sustainable management of water resources

Theadvanced monitoring of water infrastructure through IoT is a crucial breakthrough for urban sustainability. Specific sensors installed in water networks not only identify contamination and ensure safe drinking water, but are also critical in detecting leaks along pipelines. This is vital in a global context where water resources are becoming increasingly scarce and precious. By quickly identifying leaks, prompt action can be taken to repair them, reducing significant water wastage and minimizing environmental impact. Such efficient management not only conserves a critical resource but also reduces the cities' operational costs and carbon footprint.

Infrastructure security

The use of IoT sensors to monitor urban infrastructure provides an additional layer of safety that is essential for disaster prevention. Sensors installed on bridges, viaducts, tunnels, buildings, and aqueducts can detect changes and anomalies that could forewarn of structural failure. This real-time monitoring enables the application of preventive and predictive maintenance strategies, which are significantly cheaper than post-damage interventions. Predictive maintenance not only lowers operating costs but also drastically reduces public safety risks, ensuring the longevity and reliability of vital infrastructure.

Conclusion: toward a smart and sustainable future

The adoption of IoT in Smart Cities represents more than a technological advance: it is a strategic imperative for urban sustainability and raising the quality of life. Successful implementation of these technologies requires a holistic vision that transcends sectoral boundaries and is based on synergistic collaboration between public agencies, private businesses and local communities. Such collaboration is essential to building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable resource management, and ensuring a better quality of life for all citizens.

In this context, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the IoT is proving crucial. AI amplifies the potential of the IoT through advanced algorithms that can analyze large volumes of data collected from sensors in real time. This continuous learning and improvement capability allows not only proactive optimization of urban operations, but also predicts trends and behaviors, significantly improving urban planning and response to unexpected events. For example, AI can predict energy or water demand spikes and automatically adjust resources to maximize efficiency and reduce waste. Similarly, embedded AI systems can improve public safety by analyzing video streams to recognize suspicious behavior or emergencies in real time, directing resources where they are most needed.

Adoption of this advanced technology also presents significant challenges, including the need to ensure citizen privacy and data security in an increasingly digital age. Addressing these issues with appropriate policies and regulations will be critical to maintaining public trust and promoting widespread adoption of IoT and AI technologies.

If you would like more information on the integration of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things within city management, please contact us using the form at the bottom of this page.

Introduction

Over the past decades, cities around the world have faced a number of growing challenges related to urbanization, including increased traffic, air pollution and loss of quality of life. In response to these challenges, urban planner Carlos Moreno has proposed the concept of the "15-minute city." This model, which aims to create more livable and sustainable communities, is gaining global attention. In this article we will explore the principles of the 15-minute city, its benefits, the challenges of implementing it, and some examples of cities that are adopting this approach.

The principles of the 15-minute city

The 15-minute city concept is based on four basic principles:

Proximity: all essential services, including work, education, shopping, health services, and recreational spaces, should be within a maximum of 15 minutes walking or cycling distance from one's home. This reduces the need for long daily commutes.

Diversity: Urban areas should accommodate a variety of land uses. This diversity supports a range of economic and social activities, making communities more resilient and dynamic.

Inclusiveness: 15-minute cities should ensure equitable access to services for all communities, regardless of income, ethnicity or social status. This principle promotes equality and social cohesion.

Sustainability: Reducing car use and promoting more sustainable means of transportation, such as walking and cycling, decreases the environmental impact of cities, helping to combat climate change and improve air quality.

The benefits of the 15-minute city

Adopting the 15-minute city model brings with it a number of significant benefits:

Reduced traffic and pollution: with fewer people commuting by car, there is less traffic and, consequently, less air pollution. This improves air quality and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Health improvement: walking and cycling are physical activities that improve cardiovascular and mental health. In addition, having access to green spaces and sports facilities nearby promotes a more active lifestyle.

Social cohesion: 15-minute cities promote greater interaction among residents. The presence of public and community spaces facilitates socialization and strengthens neighborhood ties.

Economic resilience: diversification of local economic activities makes communities more resilient to economic crises. Local small businesses can thrive in an environment where residents shop and use nearby services.

Quality of life: reducing time spent on daily commuting frees up time for other activities, improving the overall well-being of citizens. The availability of services and infrastructure within a short distance makes daily life easier and more enjoyable.

Smart cities and 15-minute cities: the technological aspects

Smart technologies play a crucial role in supporting the 15-minute city model, making urban areas more efficient, sustainable and livable. One of the key tools is the Internet of Things (IoT), which uses sensors to collect real-time data on traffic, air quality, energy consumption and service availability. This data can be analyzed to optimize urban resource management and improve citizens' quality of life.

Digital platforms are another key element, facilitating access to urban services. Mobile applications and online portals enable residents to book medical appointments, find local stores, attend community events, and use public transportation more efficiently. Smart mobility, which includes integrated public transportation systems and bike and car-sharing services, helps reduce dependence on private cars, thereby decreasing traffic and pollution.

Finally, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies can be used to proactively predict and respond to city needs. For example, advanced algorithms can optimize public transportation routes, improve waste management, and increase urban security through smart surveillance.

Implementation challenges

Despite its many benefits, implementation of the 15-minute city model presents several challenges:

Planning and infrastructure: reorganizing existing cities to conform to the model requires a significant investment in urban planning and infrastructure. This includes creating bike lanes, safe sidewalks, and adequate public spaces.

Social equity: ensuring that all neighborhoods, including the least affluent, have equitable access to services is critical. This requires policies that prevent gentrification and promote social inclusion.

Cultural change: adopting the 15-minute city model requires a change in the habits and mindset of citizens, who may be accustomed to being car-dependent. Education and awareness are crucial to the success of the model.

Political and public support: The support of local and national governments, as well as the public, is essential for the implementation of the model. This can include incentives for the use of sustainable transportation and sustainability-oriented urban development policies.

Examples of 15-minute cities

Some cities are already taking concrete steps toward adopting the 15-minute city model:

Paris, France: Mayor Anne Hidalgo is a leading proponent of the 15-minute city model. Paris is implementing policies to reduce car traffic, increase green spaces, and improve accessibility to essential services. One example is the creation of "super-îlots" where car traffic is restricted and streets are reserved for pedestrians and cyclists.

Melbourne, Australia: the city has adopted the "Plan Melbourne" plan that calls for the development of 20 "20-minute cities" within the metropolitan area. This plan aims to ensure that all residents can access essential services within a short radius of their homes.

Portland, United States: Portland is known for its sustainable urbanism policies and has begun to incorporate elements of the 15-minute city model into its urban development plan. This includes promoting walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, as well as encouraging local small businesses.

The smart city and the convenient city: Giulia Agrosì's contribution

In her book "The Smart City and the Comfortable City," Giulia Agrosì further explores the concepts of smart city and "comfortable city," exploring how digital technologies can be integrated into urban policies to improve quality of life. The concept of the "convenient city" aligns closely with that of the 15-minute city, emphasizing the importance of citizen-centered urban planning.

Agrosì discusses the use of smart technologies such as IoT sensors, digital platforms and smart mobility systems to create more efficient and sustainable cities. These tools can support the 15-minute city model by making urban services more accessible and improving urban resource management.

The book also places a strong emphasis on inclusiveness and sustainability, key issues for 15-minute cities. Agrosì emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all citizens, regardless of income or social status, have equal access to essential services. It also promotes the creation of green spaces and the adoption of sustainable building practices to improve quality of life and reduce environmental impact.

Conclusion

The 15-minute city model represents an innovative and sustainable vision for the future of urban areas. By promoting proximity, diversity, inclusiveness, and sustainability, this approach can significantly improve the quality of life for citizens, reduce the environmental impact of cities, and create more cohesive and resilient communities. However, its implementation requires careful planning, investment in infrastructure, and strong political and public commitment. With the right support, 15-minute cities could become the norm, transforming our cities into more livable and sustainable places.

If you would like to learn more about the 15-minute city or discover the technological innovations that can enable a transition to the Smart City, please contact us using the form at the bottom of this page.