{"id":48128,"date":"2024-06-03T10:59:44","date_gmt":"2024-06-03T09:59:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/?p=48128"},"modified":"2024-06-04T14:55:42","modified_gmt":"2024-06-04T13:55:42","slug":"raw-materials-innovation-s34i-from-sky-to-soil","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/raw-materials-innovation-s34i-from-sky-to-soil\/48128\/","title":{"rendered":"Raw materials innovation: S34I, from sky to soil"},"content":{"rendered":"
The backbone of Europe\u2019s economy lies in its raw materials. They provide a robust industrial foundation, producing a diverse range of goods and applications that are a part of our daily lives and modern technologies. However, the availability of certain raw materials remains a growing concern both within the EU and throughout the world. It\u2019s essential to ensure reliable and unrestricted access to these materials to maintain a stable and flourishing economy.<\/p>\n
Europe has always been dependent on other regions for its raw materials, which makes it vulnerable. However, a new project called S34I, which was launched in January 2023 and co-ordinated by the University of Oporto, aims to increase Europe\u2019s autonomy in raw materials resources by utilising advanced data-driven techniques for analysing Earth Observation (EO) data.<\/p>\n
The project leverages Copernicus and other satellite sensors (including optical and radar) for data collection, while other platforms like airborne, low altitude platforms, ground-based, in-situ techniques\/methods, and fieldwork are used to complement Copernicus data or for calibration and validation purposes. The S34I project\u2019s primary focus is on systematically exploring minerals and continually monitoring extraction, closure, and post-closure activities to improve European knowledge and autonomy on raw materials resources. Additionally, the project seeks to improve social acceptance of mining (SLO) and promote better legislation.<\/p>\n
S34I is developing technical experiments and pilot validations\/demonstrations for six pilot use cases, including Onshore Exploration, Shallow Water Exploration, Extraction, and Closure\/Post-Closure:<\/p>\n
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The project\u2019s methodology involves conducting multi-scale and multi-platform analysis of EO data, which is harmonised to meet EU data quality standards. Prototype processing pipelines are currently under development for three service categories: mapping raw materials deposits, providing early warnings for risk reduction, and monitoring environmental changes.<\/p>\n
S34I uses advanced AI techniques, such as SBAS-InSAR and predictive modelling, to create a comprehensive view of ground instability mapping and Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) prediction. The project is also paying special attention to enhancing geological integration at the land-sea interface and ensuring open access to research datasets.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, the project aims to demonstrate the value of its results to stakeholders by promoting secure and sustainable raw materials supply to Europe while enhancing resilience and reducing dependence on non-EU sources.<\/p>\n
S34I is the perfect example of how innovation and technology can help boost Europe\u2019s self-reliance and ensure that it remains a leader in raw materials resources.<\/p>\n
Ana Cl\u00e1udia Teodoro<\/strong> Kri\u0161tof O\u0161tir<\/strong> Matija Ger\u010der<\/strong> Alicia Garc\u00eda L\u00f3pez<\/strong>
\nProfessor at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto – S34I Project Coordinator<\/p>\n
\nProfessor at University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Civil and Geodetic Engineering<\/p>\n
\nB.Sc. and with. geod. (UN) University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Civil and Geodetic Engineering \u2013 S34I Project Partner<\/p>\n
\nCommunication & Dissemination responsible
\nIberian Sustainable Mining Cluster \u2013 S34I Project<\/p>\n