Page 14 - Guidelines for cities to achieve carbon Net Zero through digital transformation

Green ICT for city economic growth:

Green ICT initiatives focus on leveraging ICTs to promote sustainability, connectivity infrastructure,
citizen empowerment, and addressing carbon behavioralbehavioural change. For instance, cities
can invest in the development of low-carbon or zero-carbon electric grids powered by renewable
energy sources, facilitating the transition to clean energy. The application of artificial intelligence (AI)
and robotics in waste management can enable automated disassembly and separation of waste,
improving recycling rates and reducing landfill contributions. By embracing green ICT solutions,
cities can foster economic growth while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.

ICT to transform citizen behaviour:

Scientists are more certain than ever that people’s actions play a pivotal role in environmental change.
Lifestyle changes are needed to minimize the impacts of current environmental problems. People’s
individual actions can make a significant contribution. Urging people to adopt a more sustainable
behaviour can be an integral part of the solution to environmental challenges (Abrahamse, 2019).

ICTs offer opportunities to transform citizen behaviour towards carbon neutrality through the
provision of smart services and applications. For example, mobile applications can provide real-
time information on sustainable transportation options, energy-efficient practices, and eco-friendly
consumption habits. Additionally, cities can implement training programmes and awareness
campaigns to educate and empower citizens to adopt sustainable behaviors, such as reducing
energy consumption, practicing waste recycling, and utilizing public transportation.

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