Enhancing Inclusiveness and Sustainability in Smart City Evaluations: Integrating Novel Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Dimensions

The rapid urbanization has resulted in various challenges including environmental pollution, social inequality, and a weakened capability of problem-solving. Current Smart City Indexes are lacking in focusing on environmental, social, and governance dimensions. This paper will be introducing a new ESG-based Smart City Index, which can improve the evaluations of cities in an inclusive and sustainable manner. A pilot study conducted among the WeGO members brings out its effectiveness in driving urban innovation.