Networks and cities' news

Ready citizen one: the metaverse cities are on their way, and it’s not urban fiction

The “METACITY” Action Planning Network, funded by the EU URBACT IV programme, is now entering into the final course of its planning stage, with its 10 partners developing the first versions of its Integrated Action Plans, that will bring them one step closer to a strong presence in the metaverse. And no, this is not science fiction or even urban fiction, as they have already tested and will now start to prepare for implementing real actions that will put technology at the service of their citizens.

The Skoufas Association: A Pillar of Cultural Heritage and Innovation in Arta

Founded in 1896, the Skoufas Association has long been a cornerstone of cultural and intellectual life in Arta and the broader Epirus region of Greece. For over a century, this venerable institution has been dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the area, fostering a deep sense of identity and unity among its residents. In a recent interview, Mrs. Spyridoula Chouliara, a member of the board of directors, offered an insightful look into the association’s history, its ongoing educational initiatives, and its forward-thinking efforts in digitizing and modernizing its extensive collections.

Transforming Tomorrow: Nykarleby's Digital Journey with Åbo Akademi University

Embarking on the Metacity journey together with the city of Nykarleby, Åbo Akademi University has identified a set of markers that describe the specific context of the future prospects of a small town in a fairly remote area. The prospect of a metaverse of virtual solutions and services sets the stage for rethinking the current state of public services and processes.

The recently adopted new city strategy, Nykarleby 2040, is guided by the slogan “Dream big in a small town” as an overarching aim. These big dreams are life-sized rather than utopian. The task ahead, as reflected by the coming Metacity integrated action plan, is to identify and map the paths toward that aim. The new virtual world may seem abstract, and our goal is to make it concrete and adapt the tools to our needs rather than the other way around. Without implementation plans for the launch of activities, an overarching strategy may become counterproductive.

I’ve been to Härnosänd and seen the future of urban planning – through a VR Headset. And it will soon be coming your way.

The METACITY Action Planning Network has gotten 10 cities thinking about the future of urban planning and how can new digital technologies, such as the metaverse or Artificial Intelligence (AI), contribute to shape it. As the Lead Expert of the network, I have travelled to one of the Partner Cities – Härnosänd in Sweden - and discovered that virtual reality can be both magnificent and scary.