Beyond Technology

Local Authorities’ Perspectives on Smart Sustainable Cities in Porto Alegre

Abstract

Smart Sustainable Cities (SSCs) integrate technology, governance, and sustainability to address urban challenges and improve citizens' quality of life. However, the understanding of SSCs varies depending on local contexts and stakeholders’ perspectives and is often technocentric. This study presents preliminary findings on how local authorities in Porto Alegre (POA), Brazil, understand smart sustainable cities, analysing their perceptions and interpretations of this evolving urban model. This study addresses the following research question: What does "smart sustainable city" mean to local authorities in Porto Alegre? Using a qualitative approach, fifteen interviews with key officials from different city departments provide preliminary insights into how SSCs are framed beyond technological advancements illustrating examples of initiatives that contribute to Porto Alegre’s transition towards an SSC. While technology plays a role, local authorities emphasise inclusive governance, innovation, data-driven decision-making, education, collaboration, citizen-centricity, and integration as central to their vision of a smart sustainable city.