Smart Seoul: How the city is cultivating a tech push through urban farming and wildfire detection

Smart Seoul: How the city is cultivating a tech push through urban farming and wildfire detection

ByBarbara Riedemann

This blog explores two groundbreaking initiatives in Seoul that are paving the way for urban resilience. Firstly, the Metro Farms project is turning subway stations into cutting-edge vertical farms that harness the power of AI and IoT. These smart farms produce pesticide-free vegetables year-round, while also conserving water and reducing emissions. Plus, they play a crucial role in community education and support for vulnerable groups. Secondly, Seoul has implemented an AI-driven wildfire detection system that uses solar-powered sensors and LPWAN technology to monitor fire-prone areas in real-time. This enables swift action and enhances public safety. Collectively, these projects demonstrate how Seoul is utilizing advanced technology to address food security and climate challenges within its dynamic urban environment.

Five reasons why oceans are important to cities and why cities are important for our oceans

Five reasons why oceans are important to cities and why cities are important for our oceans

ByAriel Dekovic

Local and regional governments are paying attention to the multilateral oceans agenda because of the myriad ways life in coastal cities, towns and regions depends on the health and sustainability of our oceans.

Urban resilience begins here: How women in Izmir are growing more than food

Urban resilience begins here: How women in Izmir are growing more than food

ByMatteo Bizzotto

As Türkiye braces for another summer of heatwaves and unpredictable storms, spaces like the Kadifekale community garden offer a green space that is not only public, but participatory.

LGMA launches National Coordination group in Brazil to elevate subnational voices at COP30

LGMA launches National Coordination group in Brazil to elevate subnational voices at COP30

ByAriel Dekovic

The launch of the LGMA National Coordination Group in Brasília marks a major milestone for climate federalism and multilevel governance in Brazil. Co-organized by ICLEI, the group brings together national ministries, local leaders, and civil society to ensure subnational voices help shape Brazil’s role at COP30.

What does an ecological civilization look like? China’s Guiyang City is showing the way

What does an ecological civilization look like? China’s Guiyang City is showing the way

ByXiaoqian Zhou

With lush forests, clean air, and a fast-growing green economy, Guiyang is proving that cities can thrive without costing the Earth. On 5–6 July, urban leaders will gather here for the Eco Forum Global Annual Conference to promote harmony between humans and nature, a journey that Guiyang has proudly led for years

‘Women must make something out of nothing’: On the frontlines in Izmir’s climate resilience efforts

‘Women must make something out of nothing’: On the frontlines in Izmir’s climate resilience efforts

ByMatteo Bizzotto

In Izmir’s Pazaryeri and Imariye neighborhoods, women are on the frontlines of climate resilience, navigating floods, heatwaves, and economic challenges while leading solutions that strengthen entire communities.