In a redefinition of how humans interact with their cities—and as a response to growing climate challenges and energy demands in smart urban environments, smart pavements equipped with kinetic energy-harvesting technologies are emerging as a sustainable and innovative solution. Using piezoelectric or nanomaterials, these surfaces capture the kinetic energy from pedestrians’ footsteps and convert it […]

In an effort to expand energy access across rural India, an innovative project has developed a flexible model for distributing electricity. The system relies on portable, rechargeable batteries that operate on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. Residents can charge these batteries at local solar- or wind-powered stations, then carry them home to power essential devices. The approach […]

In Hoboken, New Jersey, a city long vulnerable to rising waters, a playground has been reimagined as climate infrastructure. The project offers a forward-looking model of how urban design can both protect against extreme weather and serve as a space for recreation and environmental learning. Here, a swing set and basketball court sit atop a sophisticated system that captures and stores storm water—turning a once-flooded site into a resilient public space.

In an effort to empower citizens to identify the most pressing social issues—ranging from the cost of living to housing and healthcare—Flinders University in Australia has pioneered a uniquely democratic approach to policymaking. The project, built around a national survey of 30,000 people, transformed citizens from passive respondents into active partners in generating knowledge. It […]

Do you want to learn about the most prominent government communication innovations through which governments around the world communicate with individuals and contribute to community involvement in designing government policies and initiatives?

“Green government” operations are operations that minimize an entity’s environmental impact, including its energy use, water use, waste and pollution generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Likewise, “climate tech” includes technologies that are used to address climate change. While government entities across the world face tight budgets, smart investments can reduce operational costs and demonstrate how to implement climate-friendly, green activities.

Guide to organizing effective hackathons for governments to drive innovation, adaptability, and cross-sector collaboration.

The Social Well-being Report aims to shed light on the breadth and diversity of innovations in promoting social well-being and reviews a range of innovative government policies and programs to improve the quality of life of individuals around the world.