Towards sustainable cities

Purpose – Cities drive urban, social and economic development and select a path for sustainability following a smart approach. Cities should evolve as smart communities understanding the potential of information technology to support collaboration between public and private organizations in order to improve urban competitiveness, sustain innovation and ensure the quality of life. The aim of this study is to identify the dimensions leading cities to sustainability: developing a smart approach; sustaining the role of municipal institutions for building smart governance; promoting education, learning and innovation. Design/methodology/approach – As smart communities, cities use technology to develop smartness and sustainability for knowledge and innovation. This study is based on archival and qualitative data drawn by literature review and analysis on smart and sustainable cities and communities. Originality/value – Cities promoting a smart approach should select a path for sustainability. Identifying dimensions driving cities to develop as sustainable cities and communities helps to identify knowledge source for innovation and urban growth. Practical implications – As smart and sustainable communities, cities should encourage partnerships between private and public actors in order to provide services, create and ensure high quality of life. As communities, cities should support people by sustaining learning and education, developing smart institutions of governance to design policies driving sustainable urban growth and development.