Page 86 - U4SSC Blockchain for smart sustainable cities

It is very difficult to have a one-size-fits-all solution for B4C; however, blockchain technology could be a
relevant and suitable technology to explore if there is (1) a need to store information and data, (2) if multiple
parties are involved, and (3) if it engages trust among the involved parties (4) if it concerns transactions
or transfer of value. All the other variables of the suitability of blockchain technology will help the city to
obtain a more in-depth analysis of the process, the design and the technology. Furthermore, it will help
to navigate, evaluate and assess which type of blockchain, whether it is an optimal solution, as well as to
compare it to alternative technology. In the specific context of blockchain for cities, complying only with the
suitability of blockchain is not sufficient; it requires a contribution to the smartness and the sustainability
challenges of cities in priority as well, and depends on the specific context of the city. It is critical to ace
the suitability test if there is a clear need to solve a problem or seize an opportunity identified, and one
where blockchain could be useful.

6. Conclusion and key considerations for blockchain for cities

Blockchain technology as a foundational form of innovation is among the most trending technologies
attracting more interest for future urban development initiatives and smart sustainable city efforts. The
public sector and more specifically public service is where blockchain could have the most impact.
As presented in this report, several cities have started adopting and developing pilots of blockchain-based
smart city efforts. However, many concerns remain regarding the technology and its understanding, as
well as questions on its applicability to future cities projects. This report intended to reduce these gaps by
leveraging knowledge from the scientific literature in the field, from the analysis of concrete use-cases and
experience challenges, opportunities and lessons learned, as well as from experts, to provide research-
driven policy recommendations.
Bearing the above in mind, this report looks to address the key considerations in exploring blockchain
technologies as a part of smart city initiatives. These considerations are critical for municipal managers, as
well as decision- and policy-makers to reflect on and integrate when considering smart cities initiatives that
involve the applications of blockchain. They are based on the findings, use-cases and other experiences of
blockchain technology adoption by the public service and government.

(1) Building a Blockchain Smart sustainable city Ecosystem

Blockchain-based smart city initiatives are complex and compel the involvement of multiple stakeholders,
and require different types of expertise (IT, finance, auditing, development, programming). The development
of a multistakeholder approach and collaboration, encompassing the local government entities, regulators,
start-ups, banks and others is critical to the success of blockchain projects.
Building a blockchain ecosystem in the city is considered one of the main success factors for blockchain
adoption. Public-private-partnerships with local start-ups and organizations or the development of
innovation labs with blockchain capabilities and related technologies, which could be collaborations between
universities, municipalities and local start-ups or private companies, are drivers to the development of
successful use-cases of blockchain for cities.

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