More information
Description
The issue is to increase resilience to climate change through concrete local climate change adaptation and mitigation measures and low carbon technology solutions in cities. The main objective of the Project is to establish a living laboratory in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, specifically in the old parish of São Pedro da Afurada, to demonstrate, affirm and promote the development of innovative technological solutions that contribute to the improving resilience and responsiveness to climate change, ensuring the active involvement of citizens, businesses, public authorities, and local universities.
Summary of project results
The Afurada Living Lab aimed to tackle several pressing urban and environmental challenges in the Afurada area, specifically related to carbon emissions, mobility inefficiencies, waste management, and the need for community-driven sustainable solutions. The project responded to a growing demand for innovative approaches to urban sustainability, addressing issues such as high levels of traffic congestion, insufficient mobility options, lack of incentives for recycling, and limited awareness of sustainable practices among local communities. Additionally, it sought to promote the adoption of low-carbon technologies and foster behavioral change to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The Afurada Living Lab implemented a comprehensive set of activities and solutions over a 36-month period, including:
Afurada Smart Parking:
- Developed a video analytics-based parking management system to optimize parking space usage and reduce congestion and emissions.
- Installed digital panels displaying real-time parking availability, air quality, and weather updates.
Afurada Hotspot for Electric Mobility:
- Enhanced electric mobility by restructuring parking lots and designating spaces for electric vehicle (EV) charging.
- Integrated these features with urban platforms to monitor usage and promote sustainable mobility.
Afurada Connect:
- Created the "Bike Afurada powered by AYR" app and dashboard, enabling users to monitor their carbon savings through sustainable mobility choices.
- Facilitated a pilot program with electric bikes, promoting shared usage and quantifying avoided emissions.
Afurada Upcycle:
- Conducted workshops and campaigns on circular economy practices, focusing on reusing and recycling fishing-related waste.
- Collaborated with schools and local markets to encourage waste valorization.
Afurada Smart RAYT:
- Installed smart waste collection points equipped with RFID access and digital monitoring.
- Conducted a proof-of-concept for waste separation and incentivized recycling through tokenized rewards.
Afurada "Sai Prá Rua":
- Organized temporary urban interventions to promote active lifestyles, including car-free zones and public art installations made from repurposed materials.
The project delivered transformative results that benefited residents, local authorities, and stakeholders:
Environmental Benefits:
- Reduced CO2 emissions by 121.3 kg during the pilot phase of the bike-sharing program.
- Improved waste management and recycling practices through smart collection systems and educational initiatives.
Mobility Improvements:
- Optimized parking and traffic flow with smart systems, reducing search times for parking and associated emissions.
- Increased adoption of electric mobility with dedicated infrastructure and community engagement.
Community Empowerment:
- Educated residents, including 11 active participants in the bike-sharing program, about sustainable mobility and recycling.
- Encouraged participation in urban planning and sustainability practices through workshops and public events.
Technological Advancements:
- Developed scalable and replicable tools, such as the Bike Afurada app, for broader application in similar contexts.
The primary beneficiaries included the residents of Vila Nova de Gaia, local authorities, and broader environmental advocates.
Summary of bilateral results
The Afurada Living Lab project contributed significantly to strengthening bilateral relations between Portugal and Norway by fostering collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). This partnership created a platform for exchanging innovative ideas, technical expertise, and best practices, enhancing the project’s impact on sustainability and urban development.