On world stage as a smart city
Sunderland has been recognised as one of the world’s ‘smartest cities’.
Sunderland City Council was the only UK finalist at the World Smart City Awards – aimed at highlighting areas which have put residents and businessesinapositiontotake use digital technology to drive economic and social transformation.
Sunderland City Council’s Smart City project found itself sharing the stage with major conurbations from across the globe – with Buenos Aires taking the top award at the Smart City Expo World Congress.
Liz St Louis, assistant director of smart cities at Sunderland City Council, said: “To be part of the 10th anniversary Smart City Expo World Congress and appear alongside smart city leaders from the across globe, as finalists for the City Award was truly was an honour.
“Sunderland is a city of ambition,andgainingrecognition worldwide as a connected, international city, ripe with opportunities for all.
"Our City Plan, as an urban centre for the future, is around
creatingopportunitiesandleveraging the power of technology to benefit our residents, businesses and investors.”
She added: “Congratulations to Buenos Aires, winners in the City Award category in which Sunderland was shortlisted. The Argentine capital was recognised for its municipal solid waste management plan promoting waste reduction and minimising waste going to landfill.
“Gaining recognition over recent months as a city known for its digital leadership and collaborative initiatives, Sunderlandcontinuestoshowcase its talents on the world stage.”
Sunderland's 'Our Smart City' website states: "Transforming into a smart city to
take on tomorrow’s urban challenges, including digital transition, transport innovation, housing, health and demographicgrowth;willensure that Sunderland achieves a strong local impact, whilst raising our international profile.
"We are already a leader in urban innovation through our use of new technologies to stimulate culture, the economy and tourism.
"As we continue our smart city journey, we will continue to create dynamic opportunities for individuals and business alike."
For more details on Sunderland Our Smart City’s digitaltransformation,gotowww. sunderlandoursmartcity.com