Is Barcelona a Smart City?

In this comprehensive panel discussion, we delve into the evolution of Barcelona as a pioneering city in the realm of smart city technology. Once at the forefront of this innovative field, Barcelona was recognized as the European Capital of Innovation in 2014, owing to its early adoption of smart city solutions. This video explores the journey of Barcelona from its initial stages of embracing smart city concepts to its current status, where the focus has shifted towards citizen-driven initiatives.

Join us as we engage with esteemed panelists who bring a wealth of experience and insights. We have Maria Galindo Garcia-Delgado, a prominent figure in the European Commission’s Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission. Her vast experience includes roles as Manager for Smart City Business Development at the City of Barcelona and Director General for Digital Nation and Urban Agenda of the Government of Catalonia. Her insights provide a deep understanding of the strategic shifts in Barcelona’s smart city journey.

Accompanying her is Esteve Almirall, an Associate Professor at Esade in Barcelona and the Director of the Center for Innovation in Cities. Esteve’s passion for artificial intelligence and digitalization offers a unique perspective on the technological aspects of smart cities.

This panel discussion is not just a retrospective look at Barcelona’s achievements and challenges in the smart city domain. It also serves as a critical examination of the city’s current strategies, highlighting the shift from technology-driven initiatives to those centered around the needs and inputs of its citizens. The conversation aims to provide a balanced view, avoiding hyperbolic adjectives, and focusing on the factual and pragmatic aspects of Barcelona’s journey in smart city development.

Tune in for an enlightening session that brings together expertise, experience, and a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of smart cities, with Barcelona’s story as a focal point. This video is a must-watch for urban planners, technologists, and anyone interested in the intersection of urban development and technology.