Smart Buildings for Sustainable Smart Cities

On an average, 60% to 80% of the global energy consumption is attributed to cities, which generate as much as 70% of the human-induced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [1]. Buildings consume 38% [2] of the total GHGs, the single highest source of energy consumption worldwide. They also use up a large slice of natural resources, justifying the urgency to recast them into more sustainable, energy-efficient, spaces. In a world that is being transformed by tech, we need more efficient infrastructure and more sustainable living spaces. Cities built on Smart technology, fed with large amounts of data, and harnessing ‘glocal’ solutions to support sustainability can create a resilient environment to live in. Supported by a framework that is both financially viable and operationally practical, such a model can secure health, resilience, and a sustainable way of life for future generations. This paper examines the current trends and the way forward for sustainable Smart buildings to create cities that are intelligent, connected, safe, affordable, and green.