Potential integration of blockchain technology into smart sustainable city (SSC) developments: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

Prior literature lacks concrete and systematic review of the current blockchain application in smart sustainable city that covered to the full extent of various components. Thus, this study explores the integration of blockchain technology in making the city smarter, safer and sustainable.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a systematic literature review of 49 publications published globally. Data were analysed by coding of the publications whereby the codes were generated based on frequency of appearance (n).

Findings

The results showed that smart sustainable city could leverage blockchain technology in several areas such as governance, mobility, asset, utility, healthcare and logistics. Blockchain technology could also aid smart sustainable city in achieving social, environmental and economic sustainability.

Originality/value

This study proposes a smart sustainable city with blockchain technology framework: guiding city planners and policymakers by deploying blockchain that supports technology within smart sustainable city framework. This facilitates the digital transformation of a city towards smart and sustainable through the use of blockchain.

Citation

Wong, P.F., Chia, F.C., Kiu, M.S. and Lou, E.C.W. (2022), "Potential integration of blockchain technology into smart sustainable city (SSC) developments: a systematic review", Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, Vol. 11 No. 3, pp. 559-574. https://doi.org/10.1108/SASBE-09-2020-0140