Smart Cities: Evolution or Creation? A Helsinki Case Study into the future of Urban Development (ft. Mayor Juhana Vartiainen)

How can cities adapt to global warming? A recent UN report expects 68% of the world population to live in cities by 2050, compared to about 55% today. But the underlying truth is that cities are responsible for most greenhouse gas emissions, waste and pollution. In this new episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua explores the concept of smart cities and how they're revolutionizing urban living.Are they simply the result of an intelligent designer or if there are more complex evolutionary forces at play? Join Kokou as he digs into the concept of smart cities from Singapore to Helsinki, to understand what makes them 'smart'. Later in the episode, Mayor Juhana Vartiainen of Helsinki shares his vision for sustainable cities, emphasizing their role in improving citizens' lives through digital services and sustainable growth. He also highlights Helsinki's proactive approach to utilizing data for efficient governance, exemplified by initiatives like proactive preschool enrollment and vaccination outreach.Vartiainen underscores the importance of balancing efficiency with quality of life, aiming for a city where people feel comfortable and safe. Moreover, he addresses Helsinki's commitment to combat climate change, with plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and innovative solutions for sustainable heating. Looking ahead, Vartiainen envisions Helsinki as an international, dynamic city that prioritizes inclusivity, arts, culture, and quality public services.By tuning into this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into the fusion of technological innovation and emotional intelligence in urban planning. With a focus on Helsinki's journey, discover how smart cities are paving the way for a brighter, more interconnected future. Whether you're interested in sustainability, urban innovation, or global trends in governance, this episode will offer you a wealth of knowledge.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an investigation of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG-influenced financial assets, climate change, AI, greenflation, smart cities, globalization, plastic pollution, food, health care, biodiversity, the energy transition, and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editor: Julien Moity, Vincent Nickelsen. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer: Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Antoine Larcher. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cedric Cazaly Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.