Pictures of the Future Fall 2006

In Brief

^? Urban development in megacities–those with a population of over ten million–presents huge challenges. But if conditions are right, sustainable development is possible despite all the difficulties. If political leaders make clear and quick decisions, the financing needed to improve infrastructures can usually be found–even from the private sector. Given the rate of urban growth around the world, this can make megacities models of good practice   
^{more at Trends, Beijing and India} 

^? A Siemens study divides cities into three categories according to their population growth, infrastructure and financial strength. The study found that each city is struggling with its own set of problems     ^more

^? One trend is toward "light" infrastructure. This involves the use of distributed systems with a high degree of networking, such as decentralized power generation, communication via ad-hoc networks, and smaller, more efficient mini-factories for the chemical industry    ^{more at  Scenario 2025,  Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals and   Emergency Communications}

^? Siemens is rapidly becoming a total solutions partner for infrastructure projects. The company provides complex turnkey solutions, and its in-house experts also offer financing solutions based on their project experience. One example is Bangalore Airport, in which Siemens is a shareholder   
_{^{more at  Scenario 2025,  India and  Airports}}

^? China and India are booming. Many of their cities are being transformed as new infrastructures are being built up. As part of its planning for the 2008 Olympics, for instance, Beijing has asked Siemens to provide innovative solutions covering mass transit, traffic management, airports, high-speed trains, communications, security and building systems, as well as the modernization of its power and water supply systems 
^{more at  Chongqing,  Beijing,  Hong Kong and Macau and  India}

^? Many examples illustrate how Siemens innovations in the industrial sector are supporting sustainable development. For example, hotels are increasingly being built to environmental standards, and steel plants are producing lower emissions   ^{more at  Building Automation,  Beverage Industry,  Fossil Fuels Industry and   Steel Industry}