Application of ICT for urban regeneration, environmental protection and social equality in Scotland

The paper first examines how the concept of ‘smart cities’ is applied in Scotland through the use of sensors and ICT technologies to collect data and inform decision-making for the regeneration of rural and urban settlements, environmental protection and social equality to date, and goes on to consider the challenges that lie ahead. The case studies include the ‘Future City’ project in Glasgow and the outcomes of researcher engagement with a community group in the town of Linlithgow. Examples are given to demonstrate how the ‘smart city’ concept is applied in the regeneration of settlements by improving regional, national and international digital connectivity. These include the use of ICT and the Internet of Things (IoT) as they relate to the economy and employment, as well as projects for improving the efficiency of services and quality of life, to boost regeneration and resilience of neglected settlements. The paper also examines the level of development of smart monitoring strategies for environmental protection in Scotland. Finally, it presents actions for improving social equality by supporting digital access skills; informing on local food production and waste reduction; using new methods to provide health services; enabling easier access to education and information about employment opportunities; increasing the safety of urban areas; and sharing resources and skills through ‘collaborative commons’. The paper highlights the areas which currently require new research and development.