Ecotech Urbanism: Pioneering Sustainable Technologies for Developing Cities

In a world experiencing unprecedented urbanization and drastic climate change, there is immense demand for creative solutions to the environmental, social, and economic obstacles faced by burgeoning cities in the developing world. This book delves into the potential of innovative urban initiatives to address the challenges of urbanization in countries with limited resources, thereby contributing to sustainable and inclusive urban development. It explores how cutting-edge technologies can provide efficient functionality for urban residents through information and communications shared among stakeholders. The primary aim is to enhance the efficiency of urban operations, foster economic development, and improve the well-being of residents by leveraging intelligent technologies and analyzing data. Government and policy are recognized as fundamental drivers of urban development, and the book sheds light on initiatives supporting cities that are not only technologically advanced but also sustainable, inclusive, and equitable.

Contributions provide insight into technological aspects of urbanism, including the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, data analytics, and essential infrastructure for sustainable city development. They also emphasize the importance of community engagement and inclusivity, stressing that urban initiatives should be designed for the benefit of all citizens, leaving no one behind.

EcoTech Urbanism makes a compelling case for the imperative of sustainability in the future of urban areas, underscoring the critical role of technology in achieving this goal. The book offers a holistic perspective on the integration of eco-friendly technologies, fostering a balance between urban development and environmental conservation, ultimately paving the way for a future where cities thrive sustainably and inclusively.

Venkatesh Baskaran is affiliated with Alagappa Chettiar Government College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi (India). His research areas are urban sustainability urban infrastructure planning, urban modeling, responsive cities, geospatial applications and climate change challenges. He has published his research works in reputed indexed journals and authored some book chapters from popular publishers. He reviewed various journal articles related to urban sustainability studies. He has completed a Construction Management and Geographic Information Systems specialization course offered by Columbia University and University of California, Davis, respectively. In addition to these specialization courses, he achieved Introduction to Sustainability and Responsive City certifications from the University of Illinois, Urbana, and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zürich. He is recognized as an Innovative Mentor by Startup TN, a Government of Tamil Nadu unit. He has been involved in various consultancy activities for construction projects implemented under Smart City Mission. Currently, he is actively participating in assessing and monitoring the implementation of different infrastructure-related targets from Sustainable Development Goals at the City and Municipality levels.

Dr. S. M. Renuka is working as a Faculty in the Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering Guindy, Anna University, Chennai. She completed her doctoral research in Risk Management in Construction Projects.  She did her Masters in the area of Construction Engineering and management. She is an Anna University 16th Rank Holder in B.E. End Examinations (2005-2009). She is a recipient of Anna Centenary Research Fellowship for the year 2013. She has 10 years of teaching experience and 2 years of research experience. She has published her research works in Q1 and referred journals. She authored some book chapters in Springer's publication. She reviewed various articles related to smart cities and sustainable materials.  She has attended several training programmes and certification courses in her area of interest.  She is a mentor for student innovative projects. She has guided 25+ UG Projects and 12 + PG Students. Currently, 4 research scholars are working under her guidance. She is contributing her research knowledge as a Doctoral committee member and Board of Studies member in various other universities.  She is associated with various member societies like the Indian Concrete Institute, Madras Management Association and the Institute of Lean Construction. Her current research focus is to address key issues and challenges in Indian construction projects which will help to create sustainable urbanization and facilitate to reach the end users in right time.

Dr. R. Velkennedy is a Professor of Civil Engineering at Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai (India). He is also serving as the Dean of Extra-Curricular activities. He has 30 years of academic experience. Around nine scholars have completed their Ph.D degree under his supervision. He successfully completed two sponsored research project with role of Principle Investigator and Co-Investigator. He has published around 60 papers in reputed journals and presented 20 papers in National and International Conferences. His research areas are Transport planning and Policy, Sustainable Pavement Materials and Urban Infrastructure Planning. He is a life member of Indian Society for Technical Education and Indian Road Congress.