€1m awarded for data-driven climate projects in Greece

“Cities are at the forefront of global efforts to decarbonise and are motivated to act. We are proud to support ICLEI Europe in fostering a collective effort towards combating the impacts of climate change within Greek cities,” said Maria Founta, Google country marketing manager, Greece.

“We are confident that the €1m funding provided from Google.org will support the selected projects to have measurable impact in their communities and will serve as lighthouse examples to demonstrate how cross-sector efforts and public-private partnerships can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.”

The projects will commence in June 2024 and will run for the next two years. More information about the three projects below:

Dryards (Athens, Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni)

Led by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), this project will develop Dryards, an advanced AI-powered platform designed for the early detection and risk assessment of wildfires in the greater Athens area. The platform will utilise various data sources, including satellite imagery, weather data, and on-the-ground sensors, to predict and monitor wildfire risks in real-time. By providing early warnings and comprehensive risk assessments, Dryards aims to mitigate the impacts of wildfires on natural landscapes and communities.

Athens Energy Portal (Athens)

The National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) is leading a project to establish the Athens Energy Portal, which aims to support energy-poor households and promote solar energy utilisation. This innovative portal will provide residents with access to crucial information about energy-saving practices, financial assistance programmes, and solar energy options. By integrating various data sources and user-friendly tools, the portal will empower vulnerable households to reduce their energy costs and transition to renewable energy solutions, thereby contributing to the alleviation of energy poverty in Athens.

Mobilair (Thessaloniki)

The Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (Certh) is spearheading an initiative to address air pollution and transport challenges in Thessaloniki. This project involves the development of an AI-powered mobile app that promotes eco-friendly urban mobility choices. The app will provide real-time data on air quality and traffic conditions, encouraging citizens to opt for sustainable transport options such as biking, walking, or using public transportation. This project aims to enhance urban air quality and align with national sustainability plans by engaging the public and prioritising citizen involvement.