We have come to a grinding halt, as different countries are in different stages of this worldwide pandemic. European countries are struggling from the impact and some are carefully putting a toe in the water of the new normal.
However, discussions have started around resilience & recovery. Carbon emissions have dropped, traffic patterns have changed – there are a lot of lessons to be learnt from our current situation. Lessons that we can take forward when it comes to shaping our joined future and lessons when it comes to resilience of urban conurbations. There are some interesting reads on our website!
Smart cities are also just cities – across Europe, urban dwellers have come together, supported the frontline staff, and stayed together while staying apart. This kind of solidarity has also been felt in the European Smart Cities where projects and cities are adapting to the new reality and looking forward.
Back on the home turf, we have spent a considerable amount of time to prepare the merger of the EIP-SCC with SCIS into the Smart Cities Marketplace. The first major step will be announced in early summer when the new initiative will be launched by the European Commission.
Stay smart, stay resilient, stay healthy!
Your EIP-SCC & SCIS teams