Advanced data techniques, sensor technology and digital connectivity are creating opportunities to support the sustainable growth of local economies, create better places and help to address some of the significant challenges of our time; such as moving towards net zero, climate change mitigation and adaptation and the reduction in transport congestion and air pollution.

The Smart team are exploring how data collected from sensors can help in addressing a range of issues including:

  • Air Pollution – Air quality sensors can measure pollution, with the data informing policies to reduce the impact on residents’ health.
  • Better real-time travel information – To help residents make more sustainable journeys.
  • Monitoring of new developments – Sensors can be used by planners and developers to understand the impact new developments are having on infrastructure; such as water and power, traffic movements and the impact on air quality, for the site and surrounding communities.
  • Smart Energy Grids – Data underpins advances in the way energy is managed through smart grids.
  • Water Consumption – Monitoring of water usage and flooding, allowing better management regimes to lower water consumption and give better warning of flooding events. Low-cost IoT-based networks such as LoRa can support the deployment of flood sensors which are inexpensive to install and maintain due to their long battery life. The sensors can measure the level of water in streams and culverts giving an early warning alert and even averting flooding.

Data projects

Use the sidebar to find out more about our the work we’ve been doing and projects in progress or click on the links below:

            Links to data sources