Smart Cities Ahead: Policy and Regulatory Strategies for Machine Learning and Robotics in Urban Development

Abstract

This chapter examines how machine learning (ML) algorithms and robotics could help redesign cities for a future through policies and regulatory approaches. With rapid urbanization, environmental sustainability, and resource constraints emerging as pressing challenges for cities, the adoption of technology-enabled solutions can significantly improve the management of urbanization, resulting in an improved quality of life in cities. The chapter surveys existing policies on smart city initiatives, analyses regulatory challenges around data privacy and algorithmic bias, and compares approaches to smart city governance across countries. If properly implemented, ML and robotics can contribute to effective allocation of resources, service delivery and citizen engagement, as illustrated with successful case studies. It also sheds light on the lessons learned from failed initiatives, pointing to the importance of inclusive policymaking and strong data governance frameworks.