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Three Scottish projects have been awarded funding by the UK Space Agency to utilize satellites and artificial intelligence (AI) for environmental monitoring and climate change mitigation. A total of 10 projects will leverage Earth observation tools, satellite tracking, and demographic data, supported by AI, to generate forecasts and models used by various sectors including farming, energy, finance, and insurance. The aim is to assist governments and businesses in understanding and mitigating risks associated with environmental hazards. Each project will receive funding of up to £55,000 and will commence next month. Additionally, the projects will identify opportunities for green financing to promote sustainable business growth.

One of the projects, Eolas Insight in Glasgow, plans to utilize automated mapping and reporting to help organizations understand the impact of global temperatures on watercourses. It will also evaluate the benefits of mitigation strategies such as riverside woodland schemes. Omanos Analytics, also based in Glasgow, aims to enhance resilience planning by providing social context data on the effects of climate change on different demographics. Their service will integrate community narratives based on data such as land use and traditional livelihoods.

Sparkgeo UK, headquartered in Edinburgh, will develop an automated methane monitoring service. This service will enable stakeholders to monitor methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, and receive alerts when levels become too high.

The funding signifies the UK’s commitment to supporting innovative projects that leverage space technology, including satellite data, AI, and Earth observation. The goal is to promote economic growth while establishing the UK as a significant player in the space industry. The UK Space Agency highlights the importance of space-based technology in addressing global challenges, such as water pollution, carbon emissions, and biodiversity threats. This targeted funding for early-stage innovations aims to accelerate the deployment of powerful tools that can benefit a wide range of users, both within and outside the space sector.

The £530,000 in funding represents the second phase of investment by the UK Space Agency in climate services development.

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