The challenges of smart cities : social innovation and the role of public authorities in a new conception of the city. The example of Spain.

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of the Smart City as a new system of territorial organization that aims to build a more cohesive society and a sustainable model of economic growth. Smart Cities play a fundamental role in the organization of physical space and land use, and attempt to balance the needs of economic growth, energy management and transport, at the same time as complying with environmental legislation. To do so, Smart Cities need to develop new administrative competences under a new conception of the relationship between citizens and public authorities, but within the framework of territorial intelligence. This paper explores key aspects of the Smart City, taking into consideration the European framewor for Smart Cities, and Spanish legislation governing the competences and functions of the local authorities. It is suggested that Smart Cities can be considered a starting point for designing a new kind of urban living experience which provides different mechanisms for collective interest to be expressed and recognized.