BGI-Actionable

The “Bit-a-Green for Better Health” project is a pioneering initiative that aims to transform urban spaces into healthier and more liveable environments. Recognising the challenges cities face in adapting to climate and environmental impacts, this project focuses on using nature-based solutions to enhance urban areas. The core of the project is a cutting-edge digital tool designed to monitor and analyse the impact of green infrastructure (like green roofs, raingardens, urban trees and parks) and sustainable transportation on the health of city residents.

This tool is unique as it integrates various types of data, including remote-sensed and crowdsourced information, along with cost-benefit analyses, to offer practical insights for nature-based urban design that is cost-effective. The project aligns with the strategic objective of creating liveable urban spaces, as outlined in the EIT Urban Mobility’s Strategic Agenda. It builds upon the existing BitaGreen BGI builder, enhancing it with new health impact assessment models and advanced data management techniques. The goal is to achieve a market-ready tool, tested and refined through partnerships with pilot cities: Brussels, Belgium and Valletta, Malta.

The tool will enable cities to understand and quantify the health effects and economic impacts of their urban planning decisions. It will map health burdens related to factors like air pollution, noise, heat, lack of green spaces, and low physical activity. These burdens will be measured in both epidemiological and economic terms, providing a comprehensive view of the health implications of urban planning. Additionally, the project develops a business model tailored to the varying needs of stakeholders in urban planning and transportation, ensuring the tool’s accessibility and relevance to different cities and user profiles. The ultimate aim of this project is to guide investment towards creating healthier, happier, and climate-resilient cities, demonstrating the multiple benefits of green infrastructure and sustainable mobility.