Smart Cities and Sustainable Waste Systems: Innovations in Urban Solid Waste Management
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Abstract
The growing pace of urbanization and consumption has intensified challenges in municipal solid waste management, prompting cities to seek innovative and sustainable solutions. This study examines how smart city innovations particularly digital technologies, governance frameworks, and community participation are transforming conventional waste systems into integrated, data-driven, and sustainable models. Using a mixed-methods approach, five global smart cities; Singapore, Seoul, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Dubai were analyzed based on technological, environmental, economic, and social parameters. The study employed quantitative indicators, including IoT adoption levels, recycling efficiency, cost per ton, and carbon reduction, complemented by qualitative assessments of policy effectiveness and citizen engagement. Results revealed that Singapore and Seoul demonstrated the highest Smart Waste Sustainability Index (SWSI) scores (0.85 and 0.83, respectively), emphasizing the synergy between technological innovation and public participation. Strong correlations were found between technology adoption, cost efficiency, and recycling outcomes, indicating that digitally enhanced waste systems significantly contribute to environmental and operational sustainability. The findings suggest that smart governance, participatory strategies, and circular economy integration are essential for achieving efficient and resilient urban waste systems.