An Interdisciplinary Vision for the Cities of the Future:Green, Smart, and Resilient Cities

Last October, I had the opportunity to gather with esteemed colleagues at the "Green, Smart, and Resilient Cities" panel organized by the Union of Mediterranean Municipalities. In this event, where we addressed the future of our cities from various perspectives—ranging from earthquake resilience to the climate crisis, and from artificial intelligence to digital management strategies—each of us completed a different piece of the "resilient city" mosaic.

Earthquake Master Plan: The Foundation of a Secure Future

The opening presentation, which formed the technical infrastructure of the panel, was delivered by Ecehan Olucak (Earthquake Master Plan Coordinator). Emphasizing the vital importance of building inventory for a city's resilience, Ms. Olucak stated that the Earthquake Master Plan is not just about buildings, but serves as a "future insurance" protecting all urban life.

Digital Transformation and AI Integration in Local Governments

Mustafa Güler, Vice Mayor of Kepez, detailed how local governments should prepare for a digital future. Speaking on the integration of artificial intelligence into municipal services and the vision for a digital future, Mr. Güler shared examples of how smart city systems make the decision-making processes of local governments faster and more efficient. He underlined that digitalization in urban management is not merely a preference but a necessity for sustainability.

The Future of Sustainable Cities and the Role of Landscape

Gülsüm Kıldan, President of the Antalya Branch of the UCTEA Chamber of Landscape Architects, provided a framework integrating our professional perspective into general urban strategies. Stating that sustainable cities sensitive to changing climate and water conditions are only possible through correct landscape planning, she emphasized that ecological balance must be at the center of urban design.

The Future of Design and Adaptation

My segment focused on the design and creativity dimension: "Generative AI (GenAI) and the Digital Future." From a landscape architecture perspective, I addressed AI across three main axes:

• AI-Powered Project Analysis: Data-driven speed offered by AI in technical processes such as water management, sun analysis, and plant selection.

• Generative Tools in Design: Combining our imagination with a digital assistant during the conceptual design phase to produce more creative landscape solutions.

• Future Trends and Ethics: Keeping the ethical responsibilities of the landscape architect and the duty to protect the natural fabric at the forefront while using technology as a tool.

  I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Süreyya İşeri, Secretary General of the Union of Mediterranean Municipalities, for his visionary approach, his invitation, and his kind hospitality in bringing us together for this meaningful event and productive discussion.