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Latitudo 40's SUHI Layer powers the EVOLUTION project, helping cities like Catania identify high-risk zones and plan Nature-Based Solutions. This research combines geospatial analytics and green strategies to tackle urban heat, reduce pollution, and improve urban resilience
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As cities grow, they increasingly face the challenge of Urban Heat Islands (UHIs)—localized zones where temperatures are 5-10°C higher than surrounding rural areas. This phenomenon stems from dense infrastructure, minimal vegetation, and concentrated human activity, creating environments that amplify climate impacts, strain public health systems, and accelerate infrastructure deterioration. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and low-income communities, bear the brunt of these extreme heat events, which have tripled in frequency over the past three decades.
UHIs exacerbate existing urban challenges:
- Public Health Risks: High temperatures increase the incidence of heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and cardiovascular issues, particularly among at-risk populations.
- Environmental Degradation: UHIs contribute to air pollution and the loss of biodiversity in urban areas.
- Infrastructure Stress: Elevated temperatures accelerate wear and tear on roads, bridges, and buildings, leading to increased maintenance costs and shorter lifespans for critical infrastructure.
Latitudo 40 leverages advanced remote sensing and AI-powered geospatial analytics to combat UHIs effectively. Our Satellite Urban Heat Island (SUHI) Layer uses multispectral and thermal satellite imagery to monitor temperature variations, identify hotspots, and assess the effectiveness of green infrastructure. These data-driven insights empower urban planners to implement targeted interventions and evaluate their impact over time.
EVOLUTION: Building Resilient Cities with Latitudo 40
As the technological partner of the EVOLUTION project, Latitudo 40 is at the forefront of research aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions, improving urban microclimates, and fostering climate resilience. By combining geospatial intelligence with Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), EVOLUTION provides cities with the tools needed to address pollution and adapt to climate challenges.
In the Mediterranean city of Catania, Latitudo 40’s SUHI Layer is being utilized as a key tool in research aimed at identifying high-risk zones, particularly in vulnerable, low-income neighborhoods with limited green spaces. By providing detailed, data-driven insights, this research aims to support local authorities in:
- Designing targeted greening strategies, such as planting urban forests, installing green roofs, and incorporating permeable pavements.
- Mitigating urban heat and reducing air pollution.
- Enhancing overall environmental quality and improving residents' quality of life.
The EVOLUTION project spans a 12-month period, focusing on the detailed observation and analysis of urban environmental phenomena. Through advanced geospatial tools and visual dashboards, the project aims to equip technical experts and decision-makers with precise insights into the causes of urban pollution and the transformative potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for cities.
The project is a collaborative effort involving TeamDev’s R&D division, WiseTown, Latitudo 40 as the technological partner, and the Universities of Perugia and Palermo. Together, this partnership ensures a multidisciplinary approach to addressing urban challenges, leveraging cutting-edge technology and academic expertise to deliver actionable insights for more sustainable urban environments.
Discover more about EVOLUTION and its potential to reshape urban living, read more here
