Innovation and Sustainable Cities

A sustainable city is one that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. It's a city that provides equal distribution of resources and opportunities for its people and protects the natural ecosystem. An innovative city is an urban development built on fundamentals of sustainability and efficiency where technology and innovation are drivers for growth. A relationship exists between innovation and cities especially in the diffusion of knowledge resulting in what Simmie refers to cities as; islands of innovation. Nairobi city is a metropolitan and a representation of other cities in developing countries exhibiting similar challenges. A picture of a sustainable Nairobi city is defined by green infrastructure characterized by education hubs with technology and innovation opportunities, a circular economy, efficient public transport and housing, smart grid powered by a mix of renewable energy sources, smart agriculture with local food production, green and safe spaces, social equity and community engagement.