Down to Earth – Webinar Series

20th October 2025

Session 1: Smart Cities 

Did you know that satellites can help cities track air pollution, reduce traffic jams, and even spot the hottest streets affected by climate change? 

Today, more than half of the world’s population lives in cities — a number that continues to grow every year. Urban areas face enormous challenges: rising temperatures, poor air quality, noise pollution, traffic congestion, and the need for more green and energy-efficient spaces. At the same time, citizens and businesses expect cities to be more connected, more resilient, and more sustainable. 

In this session, we will explore how space-based tools are already helping to make cities smarter and greener. From monitoring air quality and noise, to improving green spaces, mobility, and energy efficiency, satellite data provides practical answers to real urban challenges. Beyond cities, these tools are also driving innovation in areas like smart farming and smart factories, offering practical and long-term solutions to the challenges of climate change and urban growth. 

These solutions are not futuristic visions: they already exist today and are ready to help overcome some of the challenges you face in your work.

This session will held online from 11.00 to 11.45 (CET, Paris).

Speakers

• Ana Oliveira, CTO for Space at CoLAB+ Atlantic (Portugal)
• Elaine Sciberras, Planning Officer at Planning Authority (Malta)