From May 8-10, thought leaders and innovators from across the world will convene at Smart Cities New York, North America’s leading global conference exploring the emerging influence of cities in shaping the future. This year’s theme will focus on the “Emerging Power Of Cities.” With the global smart city market expected to grow to $1.6 trillion within the next three years, it is more important than ever for leaders, decision makers, and citizens to reflect on the goals of smart cities and consider the best ways to develop these communities.
The conference will discuss investments in physical and digital infrastructure, health, education, sustainability, security, mobility, workforce development, and more, to ensure cities are central to advancing and improving urban life.
As one of the most innovative and sustainable countries in the world, Iceland’s representation at the conference by the president comes as no surprise. Elected in 2016, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson is Iceland’s youngest president and has brought a forward-thinking vision to his term. Before taking office as president, Mr. Guðni Th. Jóhannesson was a professor of history at the University of Iceland. He has also taught at Reykjavik University, Bifröst University and the University of London. He also worked part-time for the Icelandic State Broadcasting Company as a reporter. Guðni has written numerous books on modern Icelandic history, including works about the Cod Wars, the Icelandic presidency, the late Prime Minister Gunnar Thoroddsen, spies in Iceland, former President Kristján Eldjárn, and the 2008 banking collapse. He has also written dozens of scholarly pieces and newspaper articles. He has received a variety of recognitions for his works, and in 2017 he was awarded an honorary degree by Queen Mary University.
Mr. Guðni Th. Jóhannesson will be one of they keynote speakers at Smart Cities New York 2018, and his talk will focus largely on renewable energy. Iceland has been a worldwide leader in sustainable energy for years. For example, Iceland’s national power company, Landsvirkjun, is at the forefront of environmental issues and produces 100% of its power from renewable resources. The president will be joined by other notable speakers at Smart Cities New York, including:
Alice Charles – Urban Development Lead, World Economic Forum
Ali Chaudhry – Deputy Secretary for Transportation, Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
Peter Hirshberg – Principal & Co-Founder, Maker City Project
Sarah Hunter – Director of Public Policy, X (Formerly Google [X])
Don Katz – Founder & CEO, Audible, and Founder, Newark Venture Partners
Bastian Lehmann – Co-Founder & CEO, Postmates
The event promises to offer keen insights from the biggest names in smart cities and urban development. Interested in attending the event? Check out ticket options and availability here. And to stay up to date on all things Iceland, be sure to follow us at @IcelandNatural!
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