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Across Europe, individuals and communities are increasingly stepping into the role of environmental observers – collecting data, sharing insights, and influencing decisions that reach far beyond their neighborhoods. The CitiObs initiative, funded by Horizon Europe, is a powerful example of how citizen-led efforts can contribute to research, policy, and action on a continental scale. Though already underway, CitiObs continues to grow, bringing together people, technology, and purpose to address urban environmental challenges.
Citizen Observatories: A New Force in Urban Sustainability
At the heart of CitiObs are Citizen Observatories (COs) – community-driven platforms that empower residents to monitor their urban environments using low-cost sensors and wearables. These observatories focus particularly on air quality and related environmental indicators, helping cities become healthier, more resilient, and more sustainable.
By engaging citizens from diverse regions – each facing unique environmental challenges and weather conditions – CitiObs ensures that the collected data reflects a wide spectrum of experiences and local needs.
From Local Data to European Impact
CitiObs is not just about collecting data – it’s about making it matter. The initiative strengthens the role of citizen-generated observations as a complement to official monitoring systems. This data is valuable not only for local decision-making but also for national and EU-level research and policy development, supporting the goals of the European Green Deal.
As a technology partner, Airly plays a key role in supporting this effort, especially in expanding the accessibility and impact of citizen data. Its adaptable air quality monitoring solutions are designed to work across varied urban landscapes, helping to extend the reach and relevance of citizen observations. Through low-cost sensors and a user-friendly analytics platform, Airly enables communities to better understand pollution levels in their immediate surroundings and take informed action.
Co-Creation and Collaboration Across Europe
CitiObs is being implemented through a large-scale, multi-city collaboration designed to ensure its broad relevance and impact. The project began with five Frontrunner Cities, each of which contributed insights from their experience with citizen observatories and environmental monitoring tools. These inputs are now being refined in partnership with 30 Implementer Cities. Finally, the tools and approaches will be deployed across 50 Fellow Cities in Europe. This tiered model of co-creation brings together citizens, scientists, and policymakers to shape practical, inclusive solutions.
The project’s methodology is grounded in Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI), with ethics and inclusivity embedded in all its work packages – from social engagement and technology development to communication and long-term impact.
CitiObs shows that when citizens come together to observe, understand, and act on environmental issues, their efforts can have a far-reaching impact – informing science, shaping policy, and driving change across Europe. It’s a reminder that meaningful transformation often begins at the local level, and that every data point, every observation, and every voice has the potential to contribute to a more sustainable future.
You can read more about the CitiObs project here: https://citiobs.eu/.