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In the newest episode of The Art of Digitalisation, host Johanna-Kadri Kuusk explores what makes a city truly smart and how technology can help create better places to live. She speaks with Prof. Ralf-Martin Soe, Founding Director and Assistant Professor, and Külle Tärnov, MBA, Assistant and Head of Innovation at the FinEst Centre for Smart Cities, an international research and development centre at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech).
The episode looks beyond the futuristic image of smart cities filled with autonomous vehicles and advanced technology. Instead, the conversation explores how digital solutions, data and artificial intelligence can address everyday urban challenges, from mobility and air quality to energy efficiency, climate resilience and citizen wellbeing. As the guests explain, a truly smart city is not simply one that uses the latest technology, but one that puts people and their needs at the centre.
The discussion also highlights Estonia’s role as a testing ground for smart city innovation. With its advanced digital infrastructure, secure data exchange and experience in digital public services, Estonia provides a strong foundation for developing and testing new urban solutions. The guests share practical examples from the FinEst Centre for Smart Cities, including AI-powered water quality monitoring, sensors on public transport that detect potholes and monitor air quality, and solutions supporting autonomous mobility.
Another important theme is the role of smart cities in tackling climate change and urbanisation. As cities grow and face increasing pressure on infrastructure and resources, technology can help improve sustainability, prepare for extreme weather and make urban environments more resilient. The conversation also explores how AI, digital twins and data-driven planning are changing the way cities operate and respond to future challenges.
Looking ahead, Soe and Tärnov emphasise that the future of smart cities depends not only on technological innovation but also on collaboration between governments, researchers, businesses and citizens. The ultimate goal is to create cities that are more sustainable, resilient and enjoyable places to live.
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to learn:
- What makes a city truly smart and why people must remain at the centre of urban innovation.
- How Estonia’s digital infrastructure supports smart city development.
- How AI, sensors and data are already improving everyday urban services.
- Why climate resilience and sustainability are becoming central priorities for cities.
- How the FinEst Centre for Smart Cities tests and develops innovative solutions with cities around the world.
- What autonomous vehicles, digital twins and emerging technologies could mean for the cities of tomorrow.
To stay updated on how Estonia’s digital society is shaping smarter, more sustainable and people-centred cities, follow The Art of Digitalisation on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and watch for upcoming episodes.
