Citizen Environmental Sensing for Climate Action
Citizen-driven environmental monitoring through low-cost, replicable sensor networks with the PIPCiudadFuturo Citizen Network. Using open-source sensing tools and community engagement to promote environmental action in Mexican metropolitan areas.
Area
Sense Making
Type of Project
Providing tailored sensor solutions for professionals and researchers
The Goal
PIP para una Ciudad del Futuro, developed by Dérive Lab with the support of Fondo de Acción México 2020, aimed to engage citizens in the collection of environmental data to foster actions against climate change. The project sought to empower people as active agents in environmental monitoring through low-cost sensors, promoting the social use of data for public well-being and urban sustainability.
One of the main challenges was to ensure citizen participation through accessible, reliable, and easy-to-use tools capable of monitoring air quality and other key environmental variables in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (AMG). Another key objective was to share replicable models and methodologies for other urban areas in Mexico facing similar challenges.
How can we democratize data and enable communities to take part in shaping more sustainable futures? How can open source tools provide reliable data for researchers, without locking them in?
Our Solution
Dérive Lab implemented a citizen-led network of low-cost environmental sensors, using the Smart Citizen Kit to capture open data on air quality and mobility patterns. This intervention was accompanied by collaborative workshops with students, academics, NGOs, and interested citizens.
The solution combined open technology, environmental education, and citizen science to support local decision-making, stimulate critical thinking, and build community capacity around climate resilience.
Technologies used
- Environmental sensors: Smart Citizen Kit
- Open platforms: SmartCitizen.me
- Digital fabrication: Local and adaptable production of monitoring stations
- Environmental education: Citizen science, participatory workshops, active learning
Impact & Outcomes
- A functional citizen environmental monitoring network in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area
- Real-time data integrated into open-access platforms
- Active participation from diverse sectors: youth, academia, NGOs, and private stakeholders
- Strengthened local capacities for data-informed climate action
- Open documentation available for replicating the model in other Mexican cities
What’s Next?
The PIP Ciudad Futuro model laid the foundation for a scalable, citizen-supported environmental monitoring network. Expansion to other urban areas is being considered, applying the technical and social learnings from this project to support evidence-based climate policy.
Who is it for?
- Local governments and environmental agencies seeking participatory urban monitoring models
- Community and educational organizations interested in citizen science initiatives
- Researchers and academic institutions requiring open environmental data
- Technology developers and makers committed to sustainability and open innovation
Kits available through Seeed Studio and international distributors.
Project Team
Óscar González. Fab Lab Barcelona. Hardware & Software Developer.
Guillem Camprodon. Fab Lab Barcelona. Research Director.
Victor Barberán. Fab Lab Barcelona. Hardware & Software Developer.
