Page 27 - Guidelines for cities to achieve carbon Net Zero through digital transformation

Sustainable citizen behaviour

E-Government and Digital Services

E-government and digital city services offer a powerful toolbox for cities to drive sustainability and
work toward Net Zero targets. These technologies empower citizens, improve resource management,
and enable data-driven decision-making, ultimately leading to more environmentally-friendly,
resilient and prosperous urban environments. E-government platforms and digital services provide
a direct and accessible means of engaging citizens in sustainability efforts. Through apps, websites,
and digital communication, cities can raise awareness, educate and incentivize residents to adopt
eco-friendly behaviours such as using public transport, reducing energy usage, or participating in
recycling programmes.

Seoul, Republic of Korea, stands as a prime example of a city utilizing e-government and digital
services to drive sustainability. With a focus on creating a smart and eco-friendly urban environment,
Seoul has established a robust digital infrastructure that facilitates seamless communication between
government departments and agencies. Through initiatives like the “Seoul Transport Operation &
Information Service” (TOPIS) app, the city encourages residents to choose public transportation
over private vehicles, optimizing traffic flow, and reducing emissions (Ko & Lee 2018).

Figure 9: Seoul South: Seoul, Republic of Korea’s TOPIS App

Source: Seoul Solutions 2018

Tallinn, Estonia's e-Tallinn initiative is a prime example of how e-government and digital services can
revolutionize administrative processes, drive sustainability, and enhance citizen engagement. The
integrated digital platform allows residents to access public services online, including the innovative
e-voting system, minimizing paper usage during elections and reducing paper waste significantly.
Beyond sustainability benefits, e-Tallinn empowers citizens with easier access to services, leading
to higher democratic engagement. Through streamlined administrative processes and improved

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