Smart Cities: Enhancing Urban Living Through Technology

Day 1 : 16:10 – 17:10

Join us for an engaging panel session as we explore the transformative potential of technology in creating more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive urban environments.

In an increasingly urbanized world, cities face numerous challenges such as congestion, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. However, advancements in technology offer promising solutions to address these issues and improve the quality of life for Hong Kong citizens. This panel session will bring together thought leaders, experts, and innovators from various disciplines to discuss the role of technology in shaping the future of cities.

Whether you are a policy maker, urban planner, technologist, or simply interested in the future of cities, this panel session will provide a platform for insightful discussions and exchange of ideas. Join us as we explore how technology can transform cities into more liveable, sustainable, and connected communities.

Learnings

  • How can smart city initiatives ensure inclusivity and bridge the digital divide to benefit all citizens?
  • What are the potential economic, social, and environmental benefits of investing in smart city technologies?
  • What are the key factors that contribute to the successful implementation of smart city projects, and what are the common pitfalls to avoid?
  • What are the future trends and emerging technologies that hold promise for further enhancing urban living and sustainability?

Post-event Actions

  • Gain insights into real-world examples of successful smart city initiatives and learn about the potential benefits they can bring to Hong Kong.
  • Learn from experts about their expertise and experiences, highlighting best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to urban development.

Speakers

Steven Lai

ATAL Engineering Group

Chief Executive, Environmental Engineering

Steven Lai is the Chief Executive of Environmental Engineering at ATAL Engineering Group, overseeing the Group’s environmental engineering operations. With over 30 years of experience in infrastructure mechanical and electrical engineering, Steven has a proven track record in designing and implementing innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness of water, wastewater, solid waste, gas treatment processes and infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and overseas.

My Sustainability Goals for 2024:

Increased use of renewable energy and hydrogen, proper and effective waste separation to enhance recycling and waste-to-energy, more underground infrastructure, and use of AI with big data

Dr Jun Zhao

Hong Kong Baptist University

Assistant Professor, Department of Biology

Dr. Zhao Jun is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biology and the Institute of Advanced Materials at Hong Kong Baptist University. He obtained his Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Dr. Zhao’s research primarily focuses on heterogeneous catalysis and its applications in biomass conversion and waste utilization. He specializes in integrating the design and selection of nanomaterials with process design advancements to enhance conversion efficiency and waste-to-fuel and chemical technologies. He has published over ninety research papers and has led several research projects on the utilization of biomass resources and clean energy.
Dr. Zhao is a member of the Chinese Chemical Society, the Chinese Society for Environmental Sciences, and the American Chemical Society. Dr. Zhao serves as a guest editor or editorial board member for journals such as Energy, Ecology and Environmental, Energy Materials, Bioresource Technology, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Technology, Waste Disposal & Sustainable Energy, Engineering Report etc.

My Sustainability Goals for 2024:

SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities