Digital twin cities: framework and global practices

The digital twin city is a new concept; it offers a model of urban planning and construction for future sustainable development that effectively combines innovations in digital technology with urban operational mechanisms, and provides a feasible path for urban upgrading. Through the precise mapping, virtual-real integration and intelligent feedback of physical and digital cities, it promotes safer, more efficient urban activities and more convenient and inclusive everyday services, as well as helping to create more low-carbon, sustainable environments.

However, the development of digital twin cities is still in the primary phase. It faces many challenges, such as fragmented understanding, immature technology and unclear business models. As well as defining digital twin cities and outlining their characteristics, this report puts forward a “4+5” framework and policy recommendations for the development of digital twin cities based on effective practices at around the world.