In public perception, augmented reality (AR) is still mostly linked to Instagram filters, interactive ad campaigns or experimental projects. This view seriously underestimates what the technology can actually do and keeps it seen as an “add-on” rather than a tool that can reshape urban environments.
But when cities and businesses are viewed through a sustainability lens, it becomes clear that AR can perform functions that are currently handled by physical objects.
Any urban infrastructure carries a hidden environmental cost. Material production, constant updates, logistics and disposal all consume resources. Signs, printed instructions, temporary navigation systems and advertising structures create environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Manufacturing requires energy and raw materials, transportation adds emissions and regular replacement increases waste volume.
Together, these processes create a long-term carbon footprint that is rarely considered when planning commercial and urban infrastructure, even though it directly affects environmental sustainability.
Many elements of physical infrastructure still exist simply because there were no alternatives before. Research from MDPI shows that digital solutions can significantly reduce this environmental impact while improving efficiency in urban environments.
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