Nowadays, the transformations of metropolises into smart cities is a crucial factor in improving the living conditions of the inhabitants. The goal of the smart city concept is modern urban management using technical tools that offer state-of-the-art technologies, considering the applicable ecological standards while saving resources and achieving the expected results. The purpose of this article is to identify the areas of research analysed in the international literature in the field of smart cities. The bibliometric analysis was carried out to achieve the purpose. The analysis covered publications on smart cities published in Scopus and Web of Science databases from January 2009 to May 2019. Based on the bibliometric analysis, a bibliometric map was developed using the mapping technique VOS — the visualisation of similarities. Original clusters were created using the VOSviewer software. The bibliometric map visualises the results of the analysis that targeted the word coexistence.

The discourse surrounding sustainability, particularly in the urban environment, has gained considerable momentum in recent years. The concept of a smart city epitomises the integration of innovative technological solutions with community-centred approaches, thereby laying the groundwork for a sustainable lifestyle. One of the crucial components of this integration is the effective and innovative management of waste. The aim of this article was to classify scientific research pertaining to waste management within the context of smart city issues, and to identify emerging directions for future research. A systematic literature review, based on a bibliometric analysis of articles included in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, was conducted for this study. The purpose of such a systematic review is to identify, integrate, and evaluate research on a selected topic, using clearly defined criteria. The research query included: TITLE-ABS-KEY (“smart city” AND (waste OR garbage OR trash OR rubbish)) in the case of Scopus, and TS = (“smart city” AND (waste OR garbage OR trash OR rubbish)) in the case of the Web of Science database. A total of 1768 publication records qualified for the analysis. This study presents an investigation into the current and forthcoming directions of waste management in smart cities, synthesising the latest advancements and methods. The findings outline specific future research directions encompassing technological advancement, special waste challenges, digitisation, energy recovery, transportation, community engagement, policy development, security, novel frameworks, economic and environmental impact assessment, and global implications. These insights reflect a multifaceted approach, advocating a technology-driven perspective that is integral to urban sustainability and quality of life. The study’s findings provide practical avenues for cities to enhance waste management through modern technologies, promoting efficient systems and contributing to sustainable urban living and the circular economy. The insights are vital for policymakers and industry leaders globally, supporting the creation of universal standards and policies, thereby fostering comprehensive waste management systems aligned with global sustainability objectives.

The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in smart cities has resulted in enhanced efficiency, accessibility, and improved quality of life. However, this integration has brought forth new challenges, particularly concerning data security and privacy due to the widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The article aims to provide a classification of scientific research relating to artificial intelligence in smart city issues and to identify emerging directions of future research. A systematic literature review based on bibliometric analysis of Scopus and Web of Science databases was conducted for the study. Research query included TITLE-ABS-KEY (“smart city” AND “artificial intelligence”) in the case of Scopus and TS = (“smart city” AND “artificial intelligence”) in the case of the Web of Sciences database. For the purpose of the analysis, 3101 publication records were qualified. Based on bibliometric analysis, seven research areas were identified: safety, living, energy, mobility, health, pollution, and industry. Urban mobility has seen significant innovations through AI applications, such as autonomous vehicles (AVs), electric vehicles (EVs), and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), yet security concerns persist, necessitating further research in this area. AI’s impact extends to energy management and sustainability practices, demanding standardised regulations to guide future research in renewable energy adoption and developing integrated local energy systems. Additionally, AI’s applications in health, environmental management, and the industrial sector require further investigation to address data handling, privacy, security, and societal implications, ensuring responsible and sustainable digitisation in smart cities.

The article provided a classification of scientific research relating to European Green Deal (EGD) issues to assess their compatibility with areas identified in the EGD strategy document and identify emerging future research directions. A systematic literature review was based on bibliometric analysis and focused on articles in Scopus and Web of Science databases. The systematic literature review aimed to identify, integrate and evaluate research on the selected topic based on clearly defined criteria. Research query included (TITLE-ABS-KEY (“EU” OR europ*) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY (“green deal”) ) in the case of Scopus and TS = (“EU” OR europ*) AND “green deal”) in the case of Web of Science. In total, 641 publication records were qualified for analysis. The bibliometric analysis allowed identifying eight thematic clusters and linking them to the eight areas of the European Green Deal strategy. The bibliometric analysis enabled the identification of eight thematic areas of international research undertaken in relation to the European Green Deal. These cover a variety of topics from social sciences, engineering, agriculture, sciences and natural sciences. Clusters included: Energy, circular economy, industry, building, mobility, food, biodiversity and pollution.

Energy management in smart cities has gained particular significance in the context of climate change and the evolving geopolitical landscape. It has become a key element of sustainable urban development. In this context, energy management plays a central role in facilitating the growth of smart and sustainable cities. The aim of this article is to analyse existing scientific research related to energy in smart cities, identify technological trends, and highlight prospective directions for future studies in this field. The research involves a literature review based on the analysis of articles from the Scopus and Web of Science databases to identify and evaluate studies concerning energy in smart cities. The findings suggest that future research should focus on the development of smart energy grids, energy storage, the integration of renewable energy sources, as well as innovative technologies (e.g., Internet of Things, 5G/6G, artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital twins). This article emphasises the significance of technologies that can enhance energy efficiency in cities, contributing to their sustainable development. The recommended practical and policy directions highlight the development of smart grids as a cornerstone for adaptive energy management and the integration of renewable energy sources, underpinned by regulations encouraging collaboration between operators and consumers. Municipal policies should prioritise the adoption of advanced technologies, such as the IoT, AI, blockchain, digital twins, and energy storage systems, to improve forecasting and resource efficiency. Investments in zero-emission buildings, renewable-powered public transport, and green infrastructure are essential for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions. Furthermore, community engagement and awareness campaigns should form an integral part of promoting sustainable energy practices aligned with broader development objectives.