Leading academic contributions to the European smart city landscape emanate from Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Spain's top-ranked university. The institution's research and education programmes are instrumental in advancing data-driven solutions for urban challenges, particularly in the areas of climate and sustainability. With a significant presence in Barcelona's smart city ecosystem, UB leverages its expertise in climate modelling, public health data analytics, and urban ecology to inform policy and practical interventions. Active participation in multiple EU Horizon projects dedicated to sustainable urbanisation allows the university to share its findings and collaborate with partners across Europe.
UB's commitment to knowledge sharing and its focus on data science and AI, combined with its dedication to environmental sciences, enable it to develop innovative approaches to urban planning and resource management. The institution's research informs strategies to mitigate climate change impacts, improve public health outcomes, and enhance the overall quality of life in urban environments. As an academic institution with over 10,000 employees, UB plays a crucial role in fostering talent and building capacity for the future of smart cities in Europe. Its national reach and engagement with EU initiatives ensure its impact extends beyond Barcelona.