The master’s thesis examines the impact of the smart city concept on the reduction of
pollution in urban environments. It explores the main sources of urban pollution, the
role of transport and energy consumption, and analyses the technological and
infrastructural solutions of smart cities that contribute to the reduction of greenhouse
gas emissions and the improvement of air quality.
The first part presents pollution in urban environments, the main sources of emissions,
and the impact of urbanization on environmental burden. The second chapter
introduces the concept of smart cities, their key technological components, and smart
infrastructure. The third part addresses transport in smart cities, with an emphasis on
smart mobility, real-time traffic management systems, and electric and alternative
vehicles. The fourth part analyses the environmental effects of smart cities, particularly
the reduction of emissions, improvement of air quality, and energy efficiency. The fifth
part presents examples of good practices and evaluates their transferability to the
Slovenian context.
The research results show that smart cities, through the use of digital technologies, the
Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data-driven systems, enable more efficient
traffic management, congestion reduction, lower energy consumption, and improved
air quality. Particular importance is attributed to intelligent transport systems, electric
mobility, smart energy grids, and the integration of renewable energy sources. In
addition to technological solutions, the active participation of residents plays an
important role, as changes in behavioural patterns significantly contribute to the long
term reduction of environmental pressures.
The findings of the thesis confirm that smart cities represent an effective model for
achieving sustainable urban development. Despite numerous advantages, challenges
remain related to financing, organization, technical implementation, and data
protection. Therefore, successful implementation of smart solutions requires
comprehensive planning, adaptation to local conditions, and cooperation between the
public sector, the economy, and residents.
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