Smart Region concept as a solution for sustainable development for region with a rural and urban character

Abstract

This paper is aimed to describe a smart region as not only a set of technological tools and solutions but as network system of people living in a region, their quality of living, communication, government, infrastructure, transport, economy, science, technology etc. The model region Salzland demonstrates that smart-decisions are required today first of all in mixed (urban and rural) areas to equalise the existing city-rural divide and to secure the future of the rural areas. The study provides strong evidence that despite different initial and basic conditions, all smart initiatives are aimed to the similar thing - the improvement of existing systems and structures in the considered space, whether million metropolis or thinly populated rural region.