Application of computational technologies in smart metabolic circular cities

This chapter looks at the role that computational technologies can play in creating smart metabolic circular cities (SMCCs). The complex interactions between the socio-technical-ecological systems that generate resources, waste and information flows inside a city and its neighboring regions. Planners, policymakers and urban managers can adopt computational tools to efficiently collect, track, analyze, and assess this urban metabolism. This approach uses advanced computational technologies to digitalize the circularity of urban metabolism. Furthermore, this chapter aims to examine and investigate how computational technologies might contribute to the development of smart urban metabolism. To fulfill the aim of this chapter, this study adopted a systematic literature review. The results highlight the significance of computational technologies in SMCCs, key features, challenges, and opportunities. It was found that prominent key features were resource efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transportation, green infrastructure and digital integration. Moreover, four challenges were investigated: (1) technological integration; (2) financial constraints; and (3) cultural and behavioral change. Lastly, the following three opportunities were highlighted: (1) enhanced sustainability; (2) economic growth and job creation; and (3) improved quality of life. This chapter also contributes to the body of knowledge by elaborating on the technologies, including sensors, photography, real-time surveillance systems, big-data processing systems, machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), intelligent grids, Internet of things (IoT), and blockchain technology. Furthermore, the outcome of this chapter will help decision-makers and policymakers understand the practical implications and future directions for strengthening smart metabolic circular cities.