Across the globe, researchers at the cutting edge of a variety of fields are working to develop the cities of the future. Whether it’s through AI, autonomous vehicles, blockchain, circular economies, or green initiatives, there is a growing movement aiming to create smarter, more sustainable, and safer cities for the future.

The COVID crisis has of course added a new dimension to this work – public health and safety are currently the primary concern in urban environments, and researchers and innovators are finding novel solutions to try and curb the spread of the virus, as well as preparing for any future health crises. But just what is the work that goes on in these living labs? What technologies are they developing for the cities of the future? How do humans fit into the tech landscape? And what innovations are on the horizon that will change the way we live?

In this Podcast I’ll be ask some serious questions to serious urban challenges like:

• Talk us through what your typical day looks like at the Marineterrein – what are some of the projects you’re working on?

• How have you seen smart city tech and discussion evolve over the past few years and has the pace accelerated over the past few months?

• What are some projects you are working on as a response to/result of the COVID crisis?

• How can technology help solve issues during the pandemic such as social distancing, mask wearing, or tracking infection spread?

• How are cities ensuring citizen’s rights while also enabling innovation?

• How do you see the role technology such as AI and automation growing in urban spaces?

• Are we seeing a move towards more green/sustainable tech and how are you seeing this grow in Amsterdam?

• What lessons do you think other cities around the world can learn from the work being done by living labs in Amsterdam?