Dr. Tawarat Sutabutr, Director of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD), participated in THE NOVA EXPO 2025 under the theme "Green Innovation Revolution and Green Data Center", organized by EEC Engineering Network. He also delivered a keynote speech on "Smart & Learning Cities: Building Sustainable Urban Development."
Dr. Tawarat emphasized that smart cities integrate technology and data to enhance urban infrastructure and improve people's quality of life. He stressed that modern urban development must align with the concept of "Sustainable Smart Cities," which prioritizes sustainability in areas such as renewable energy, smart waste management, efficient transportation systems, and digital governance.
However, he pointed out the challenges in developing smart cities, including outdated technology, high maintenance costs, lack of interoperability, and digital inequality?which prevents some groups from accessing essential services. Additionally, high energy consumption and climate change impacts pose significant environmental concerns. As a result, 30% of smart city projects fail due to sustainability issues.
Key Factors for a Successful Smart City
Dr. Tawarat outlined four critical factors that determine the success of sustainable smart cities: 1. Data-Driven Enhancement - Utilizing data to improve urban living conditions. 2. Adaptive Systems - Real-time adaptability to changing urban dynamics. 3. Inclusive Ecosystems - Ensuring equitable access to digital infrastructure for all citizens. 4. Learning Organisms - Cities must continuously evolve based on population and environmental data.
Chiang Mai University's Green Campus: A Model for Sustainability
Dr. Tawarat cited Chiang Mai University (CMU) as a successful case study in sustainable smart city development. The university's Green University initiative has reduced carbon emissions by 32% through modular technology and renewable energy adoption.
He also highlighted global smart city initiatives: - Singapore's Digital Twin Technology - A continuously updated digital model that extends the lifespan of urban infrastructure by 15-20%. - Barcelona's Digital Commons - A platform enabling public participation in city development. - Copenhagen's Climate Solutions - Smart water management strategies that have reduced flood damage by 60%.
"A successful smart city is not just about having the most advanced technology but about creating an adaptable, learning-based infrastructure. Balancing technology, society, and the environment is crucial for sustainable urban development. Public participation and sustainability are the keys to building the cities of the future," Dr. Tawarat concluded.
Exploring Green Innovation at THE NOVA EXPO 2025
Following his speech, Dr. Tawarat, along with Dr. Kecha Thirakomen, Chairman of Executive Board of EEC Engineering Network Company Limited., toured modern construction technology exhibitions aimed at reducing carbon emissions and optimizing resource efficiency. The expo featured innovations from over 100 companies worldwide.