ABSTRACT
The Smart Village Model (SVM) presented combines the best attributes of traditional forms of rural development and design with newer, “smart” approaches. A Smart Village is one that meets not only the UN development goals but also many other relevant location-specific goals found in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development regional well-being framework. A Smart Village is one where people’s housing and infrastructure needs are met, resulting in improved comfort and functionality for residents yet being affordable. Cultural sustainability is an important dimension of the SVM. Smart Villages are also places that are economically sustainable, made possible, for example, through providing educational opportunities relevant to the activities that are essential for taking advantage of economic opportunities. Resilience to withstand disruptions, and preparing for future changes, is another aspect of a Smart Village. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
