PLACING COMMUNITIES AND THE PLANET FIRST: A CONVERSATION ON DIGITAL SKILLS AND SMART CITIES

Digital skills are crucial for personal and economic growth in today’s society. However, along with the tremendous potential for systemic change, digital transformation comes with challenges and threats that must be mitigated. From unsustainable energy consumption to misinformation, unequal access, and human rights violations, an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation requires digital skills to be put at the service of communities and the planet.  Sustainable digitalisation, which is a core component of the European Commission’s Digital Decade policy framework, intends to empower local communities to participate in the digital economy while minimising negative impacts on the environment. This involves promoting digital literacy, upskilling companies and SMEs, and building smart communities that leverage emerging technology to improve people’s lives and protect the environment.

Placing Communities and the Planet First: a conversation on digital skills and smart cities is an event bringing together experts, leaders, and stakeholders from civil society, business, and policy domains who are committed to creating more sustainable communities and cities. The focus of the event is to explore and discuss the need for digital skills to enable sustainable cities and communities and mitigate the potential negative impacts that digital transformation can have if left untackled.