University of Stirling and the “living laboratory”

The University of Stirling is a partner in the Forth Environmental Resilience Array (Forth ERA), a state-of-the-art environmental recovery platform that will support a just transition to a net-zero economy.

Using a 5G-enabled network of water quality and quantity sensors across the entire River Forth catchment area, satellites and artificial intelligence, Forth ERA provides access to real-time environmental data and analytics, empowering businesses and regulators to adopt more environmentally sustainable practices.

The living laboratory is a partnership between the University of Stirling, BT and visualisation specialist 3DEO, using the latest connectivity and imaging solutions to develop a bespoke analytics platform, enabling the Forth Valley’s diverse economic footprint to work towards cleaner, greener ways of operating. This reimagining of research and innovation will play a significant role in meeting Scotland’s aspirations to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.

As a global exemplar of green recovery, which is easily scaled and could be replicated elsewhere, the programme has the potential to offer intelligent, data-led solutions as businesses, policymakers and regulators across the world make the transition to a more sustainable future.

The Forth-ERA programme is the first flagship programme of Scotland’s International Environment Centre, established as part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal. The Centre will position Scottish research and innovation at the forefront of international efforts to pursue economic productivity through a shift to cleaner, greener growth.