Smart Data Research UK has a key role to play in this effort, providing data, methods, and the required interdisciplinary capacity to keep the UK at the forefront of the green industrial revolution. 

Opportunities  

Geolocation data could facilitate environmental protection measures 

Aggregated movement and location data from wearable devices and smartphones could be used to help protect environmentally sensitive sites and meet the UK’s commitments under the UN Sustainable Development Goals. For example, responsible bodies could use this data to identify areas in need of protection and target the placement and maintenance of footpaths. Geolocation data could also be used to monitor fishing exclusion zones and estimate the scale of illegal fishing.  

Smart data to support emissions reduction measures  

Smart data from smart devices and smart meters can be used to help reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. For example, smart data can encourage more efficient behaviour and energy choices at a micro level. If properly amalgamated and presented, smart data could also be used by policymakers to identify and target support at households and businesses with the highest consumption footprints.  

Smart data research has the potential to play a vital role in helping us to achieve our environmental sustainability goals. By using smart data to better understand consumer behaviour, protect the environment, and reduce emissions, we can create a more sustainable future for all.