Localizing the sustainable development goals in smart and sustainable cities: how can citizen-generated data support the local monitoring of SDGs? A case study of the Brussels Capital Region

Abstract

Introduction: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as the global reference framework for sustainable development endeavors. However, traditional data sources, including official statistics, fall short in effectively measuring SDG performance, due to substantial gaps in the availability of reliable, timely, actionable, disaggregated, and accessible information for policy formulation. This research explores the SDG monitoring potential of citizen-generated data to enhance local environmental in the Brussels Capital Region.Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, the study first defines and maps essential characteristics of citizen-generated data for inclusion in environmental SDG monitoring. Subsequently, expert interviews refine these characteristics and explore design requirements tailored to the Brussels Capital Region.Results: The research culminates in a framework linking essential citizen-generated data characteristics to design requirements, ensuring data suitability for local environmental SDG monitoring.Discussion: This framework advances the existing literature by specifically addressing local environmental SDG monitoring through citizen-generated data. It offers practical insights for local stakeholders, particularly policymakers, aiming to overcome barriers to the uptake of citizen-generated data and ultimately enhances environmental SDG monitoring in the Brussels Capital Region. The framework’s applicability in other regions or for non-environmental SDG indicators remains a potential avenue for future research.