Exemplar Cities – Reykjavik, Iceland

If you take a look at the OECD’s Better Life Index, you’ll find that Iceland ranks at the top for social connection. It also ranks above average in income, wealth, well-being, heath, personal security, civic engagement, and education. It is safe to say that Icelanders enjoy a high quality of life. I can’t help but think that this is thanks to Reykjavik’s (Iceland’s capital city) passionate commitment to social innovation. There are three social innovation testbeds around the city established by Reykjavik Smart City, that develops and tests social innovation technology projects, and these testbeds aren’t just for policy makers. Everyday Reykjavik citizens can contribute, pitch ideas, and evaluate current projects through a website called Better Reykjavik. By including everyday citizens in the built environment of their city, Reykjavik is improving the livability and happiness of its inhabitants.

IL