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Three Scottish projects have received funding from the UK Space Agency to utilize satellites and artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor environmental risks and combat climate change. These projects, along with seven others, will use Earth observation tools, satellite tracking, demographic data, and AI support to produce forecasts and models for sectors including farming, energy, finance, and insurance. The aim is to assist governments and businesses in understanding and mitigating risks. Each project will receive funding of up to £55,000 starting next month. Additionally, the projects will help identify opportunities for green financing to support sustainable business growth.

One of the Scottish projects, Eolas Insight in Glasgow, will use automated mapping and reporting to help organizations comprehend the impact of global temperatures on watercourses, as well as the benefits of mitigation strategies such as riverside woodland schemes. Omanos Analytics, also located in Glasgow, will offer “Earth observation products” to enhance resilience planning and provide social context data on the impact of climate change on different demographics. Their service integrates community narratives based on data such as land utilization and traditional livelihoods. Sparkgeo UK, based in Edinburgh, will develop an automated methane monitoring service. This service will allow stakeholders to monitor methane emissions, one of the most potent greenhouse gases, in their areas and alert them when levels rise too high.

Science, innovation, and technology minister George Freeman stated that supporting UK innovators in utilizing modern technology like satellite data, AI, and Earth observation is crucial to addressing global challenges and making the UK a prominent player in space. Dr. Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, emphasized the UK’s expertise and innovation in Earth observation, highlighting the targeted funding for early-stage innovations in climate services development.

This £530,000 funding represents the second investment tranche in climate services development directly made by the UK Space Agency.

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