Smart Communities in Climate Disasters

A Case of Porto Alegre, Brazil

Abstract

This study explores the role of smart communities in responding to climate disasters, focusing on the 2024 floods in Porto Alegre, Brazil, as a case study. Grounded in existing concepts of smart communities and based on 23 in-depth semi-structured interviews with community leaders, community members, community collaborators, and local government authorities, this research employs an existing framework designed to understand how these communities evolved into smart communities and whether their adoption of smart governance practices helped them mitigate the disaster’s impacts and navigate the recovery process more effectively. The findings, derived from a qualitative data analysis, reveal that pre-existing smart communities demonstrated greater effectiveness in coordinating disaster response efforts, mobilizing resources, and building resilience. Community cohesion was reinforced during the crisis, largely due to established networks, collective trust, and decentralized governance mechanisms.
However, the study also identifies significant challenges, particularly concerning the availability and reliability of ICT-based communication systems during crises, difficulties in coordinating across different levels of government, and broader governance barriers that are especially pronounced in developing countries like Brazil. By highlighting these dynamics, this study offers valuable insights into how smart communities can be strengthened to enhance disaster response and resilience, particularly in urban areas facing increasing climate risks. More than just showcasing best practices, this study emphasizes the importance of human connections, local knowledge, and governance innovations, demonstrating that integrating community-led governance into formal disaster planning is essential for proactive and adaptive urban resilience.