Utilizing Big Data and environmentally-focused innovations to create smart, sustainable cities by integrating energy management, energy-efficient buildings, pollution mitigation, and urban circulation

Integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data technology has become crucial for the upkeep and growth of smart and sustainable cities. As a result, urban operational functionality and planning are increasingly adapting to a data-driven approach known as data-driven urbanization. This presents the possibility of constructing models of intelligent and environmentally friendly cities that operate in real time using regularly collected data. To shed light on this rising urban trend, a descriptive and demonstrative case study is used as a qualitative study to analyze and contrast Stockholm and Barcelona, considered the foremost cities in Europe in terms of ecological and technical advancements. The findings indicate that smart grids, energy meters, innovative structures, smart environmental tracking, and intelligent urban metabolism are the primary data-driven innovative approaches to enhance and promote sustainable development in both eco-cities and smart cities. This includes improving energy utilization, mitigating environmental pollution, adopting renewable energy sources, and providing ongoing input on energy distribution with precise temporal and geographical sensitivities. Municipal administrations need a cohesive strategy, and data-driven decision-making varies from city to city, as do environmental problems.