From smart to cognitive: the next wave of infrastructure innovation and development

Next-generation infrastructure development represents a paradigm shift toward highly automated, intelligent systems that leverage cutting-edge technologies to address modern urban challenges. This transformation is driven by the convergence of IoT, artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and cloud computing, creating infrastructure that can adapt, learn, and optimise performance in real-time. The global smart infrastructure market demonstrates unprecedented growth, projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030. This expansion is fuelled by urbanization trends, with nearly 60% of the world's population expected to live in urban areas by 2030, creating immense pressure on existing infrastructure systems. Next-generation infrastructure prioritises sustainability through renewable energy integration, green building practices, and advanced water management systems. Digital twins’ technology finally enables the transformation of theoretical models into practical value, while blockchain technology enhances transparency and security in infrastructure projects. These innovations collectively support carbon-neutral policies and environmental consciousness while improving service delivery and reducing operational costs.