Exploring the Differences and Similarities between Smart Cities and Sustainable Cities through an Integrative Review

Fernando Almeida (), Cristina Machado Guimarães and Vasco Amorim
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Fernando Almeida: Corvinus Institute for Advanced Studies (CIAS), Corvinus University of Budapest, 1093 Budapest, Hungary
Cristina Machado Guimarães: Centre for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CITE), INESC TEC, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Vasco Amorim: Engineering Department, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 20, 1-22

Abstract: This study adopts an integrative review approach to explore the differences and similarities between smart cities and sustainable cities. The research starts by performing two systematic literature reviews about both paradigms and, after that, employs a thematic analysis to identify key themes, definitions, and characteristics that differentiate and connect these two urban development concepts. The findings reveal more similarities than differences between the two paradigms. Despite this, some key differences are identified. Smart cities are characterized by their use of advanced information and communication technologies to enhance urban infrastructure, improve public services, and optimize resource management. In contrast, sustainable cities focus on environmental conservation, social equity, and economic viability to ensure long-term urban resilience and quality of life. This study is important because it clarifies both concepts and highlights the potential for integrating smart and sustainable city strategies to address contemporary urban challenges more holistically. The findings also suggest a convergence towards the concept of ‘smart sustainable cities’, which leverage technology to achieve sustainability goals. Finally, this study concludes by identifying research gaps and proposing a future research agenda to further understand and optimize the synergy between smart and sustainable urban development paradigms.

Keywords: smart cities; sustainable cities; urban sustainability; sustainable development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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