The Metaverse and Smart Cities

Urban Environments in the Age of Digital Connectivity

1st Edition - February 28, 2024
Authors: Zaheer Allam, Zarrin Allam
Language: English
Paperback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 2 2 3 5 1 - 8
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 2 2 3 5 0 - 1

The Metaverse and Smart Cities: Urban Environments in the Age of Digital Connectivity explores the intersection between the rapidly growing metaverse and the future of cities. T… Read more

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The Metaverse and Smart Cities: Urban Environments in the Age of Digital Connectivity explores the intersection between the rapidly growing metaverse and the future of cities. The metaverse is a virtual world that is increasingly gaining attention as a new frontier for human interaction and commerce. At the same time, cities are undergoing significant transformation as they face challenges such as population growth, urbanization, and environmental degradation. Urban planners and city administrators will find valuable insights on how the metaverse can be integrated into the planning and development of smart, sustainable, and future cities.

The book begins with an introduction to the concepts and technology of the metaverse as well as its history. It then sheds light on the current and future challenges and opportunities that the metaverse presents to cities and the quality of life of urban dwellers. It delves into the ways in which the metaverse can change cities, both in terms of their physical and virtual environments, and the impact it can have on the lives of those who live in them. It brings together the latest research and perspectives from experts in the fields of virtual reality, urban planning, and sustainability, to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date picture of this rapidly evolving field.

Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
Chapter 1 Introduction to the metaverse
Abstract
Introduction
History of the metaverse
On the perceived importance of the metaverse
From the internet to the metaverse
The metaverse and its foundational elements
Use cases of the metaverse
The metaverse economy
Fears and critisms of the metaverse
Challenges and imperatives
How does the metaverse link to smart cities?
References
Chapter 2 The history and evolution of the metaverse
Abstract
Introduction
The origins of the metaverse concept
The first steps: Early virtual worlds and gaming environments
The rise of massively multiplayer online games (MMOGS)
The metaverse in science fiction and pop culture
The emergence of virtual reality and augmented reality
The metaverse in the 21st century
References
Chapter 3 The metaverse and smart cities
Abstract
Introduction
Overview of smart cities
Understanding the metaverse
Intersecting the metaverse and smart cities
Case studies and examples
Ethical, legal, and social implications
Future directions
References
Chapter 4 The metaverse and sustainable cities
Abstract
Introduction
Sustainable cities: Challenges and opportunities
Case studies of the metaverse in sustainable cities
Benefits and challenges of using the metaverse in sustainable cities
Future directions and implications for research
Conclusions
References
Chapter 5 The metaverse and future cities
Abstract
Introduction
Metaverse-enabled smart infrastructure for future cities
Metaverse-enabled urban experience and engagement
Metaverse-enabled work and education in future cities
Challenges and limitations of metaverse-enabled future cities
Conclusions and future directions for metaverse-enabled future cities
References
Chapter 6 The impact of the metaverse on urban life
Abstract
Introduction
Challenges of urban life
Potential applications of the metaverse in urban life
Benefits and challenges of using the metaverse in urban life
Case studies of metaverse in urban life
Ethical and social implications of the metaverse in urban life
Opportunities for collaboration and cocreation in metaverse and urban life
Conclusion
References
Chapter 7 The metaverse and urban planning
Abstract
Introduction
Opportunities and benefits of using the metaverse in urban planning
Applications of the metaverse in urban planning
Challenges and limitations of using the metaverse in urban planning
Potential developments in using the metaverse in urban planning
Case studies of metaverse use in urban planning
Conclusion and future outlook
References
Chapter 8 The metaverse and real estate development
Abstract
Introduction to metaverse in real estate development
Traditional real estate development: Challenges and limitations
The metaverse and virtual real estate
The metaverse and real estate visualization
Smart technologies in real estate management
The benefits and challenges of metaverse in real estate
Case studies
Conclusion and future outlook
References
Chapter 9 The social implications of the metaverse in cities
Abstract
Challenges of social interactions in urban environments
Enhancing community building and social connections
Augmented reality for cultural experiences and diversity
Smart technologies for efficient social service delivery
Privacy considerations in the metaverse
Inclusivity and accessibility in the metaverse
Cultural sensitivity in virtual environments
Discussions and conclusions
References
Chapter 10 The economic implications of the metaverse in cities
Abstract
Economic challenges in traditional urban settings
Economic opportunities of the metaverse in cities
Urban economic planning and development with the metaverse
Implications of the metaverse for urban employment and skills
Equity and inclusivity considerations in metaverse-based economies
Ethical and legal implications of metaverse-based economies
Discussions and conclusions
References
Chapter 11 The environmental implications of the metaverse in cities
Abstract
Energy efficiency and resource management
Environmental monitoring and analysis
Sustainable transportation and mobility
Waste management and circular economy
Green spaces and urban biodiversity
Sustainable lifestyles and behaviors
Ethical considerations and future challenges
References
Chapter 12 Reflections and prospects: The metaverse and cities
Abstract
Introduction
Future developments in the metaverse
Challenges and limitations of the metaverse
The future of the metaverse and cities
Recommendations for policy and decision-makers
Final thoughts and closing remarks
References
Index

Zaheer Allam

Dr. Zaheer Allam holds a PhD in Humanities, a Master of Arts (Res), an MBA, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Architectural Science from universities in Australia and the United Kingdom. Based in Mauritius, he was the first Chairperson of the National Youth Environment Council (NYEC) at the Prime Minister’s Office in Mauritius, and is currently a board member of the Mauritius Renewable Energy Agency (MARENA). He works on several projects on the thematic of Smart Cities and on strategies dwelling in the increasing role of technology in culture and society. Zaheer is also the African Representative of the International Society of Biourbanism (ISB), member of the Advisory Circle of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA), and a member of several other international bodies. He holds several awards and commendations and is the author of over 145 peer reviewed publications and author of 10 books about Smart, Sustainable and Future Cities.

Affiliations and expertise

Deakin University, Victoria, Australia

Zarrin Allam

Dr. Zarrin Allam is a clinician-scientist with a passion for building healthy and livable cities. She currently works as a Geriatrician and Director of Physician Education at Royal Perth Hospital. Dr. Allam has published in peer-reviewed journals on the topic of healthy and livable cities, and her research interests include the impact of the built environment on health, the role of urban planning in promoting health, and the development of interventions to improve the health of urban populations. In addition to her clinical work and research, Dr. Allam is actively involved in medical education and doctor well-being. She is a strong advocate for lifelong learning and professional development, and she is committed to providing her students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful clinicians while developing their interest in urban healthy environments.

Affiliations and expertise

University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia