Innovation and sustainability: the case of space technologies

Innovation is the fundamental tool for ecological transition, but it is often the main element in realities that are not associated with sustainability, such as the space world. The latter is often referred to as an environmentally unfriendly sector, and the question many environmentalists ask is: "why are we spending all these resources on space when we have so many issues to deal with right here on our own planet?" The question is a legitimate one, but in reality this sector is offering an increasing number of technological solutions in various fields of application, so much so that we think that satellite data represents the future of sustainability.

But what are the most interesting applications for commercial use developed in the aerospace sector that bode well for an increasingly innovation-driven ecological transition? The agriculture sector is certainly one of the dimensions on which aerospace technologies can be applied. The agrifood sector is one that requires fundamental change if the EU is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, and innovation can be a key driver of this change. The Osservatorio Food Sustainability of the Politecnico di Milano has noted in recent years a increase in start-ups engaged in agribusiness innovation. For a sector as relevant as agrifood, it is important to invest in digital and technological solutions. A new term is in fact Agriculture 4.0, to mean a new way of combining growing global needs, preserving product qualities and reducing environmental impact.

That of Agriculture 4.0 is a business destined to grow thanks to the funds of the PNRR, which in the chapter 'Innovation and mechanisation of the agricultural sector' has allocated 500 million euro to improve the efficiency and sustainability of production processes and agriculture. This is the context for 3Bee, which has long collaborated with the ESA for the monitoring of biodiversity using satellite data. This innovative approach enables transparency, traceability and quantifiable impact assessments. In particular, 3Bee has developed the XNatura protocol, the first certified protocol that enables technological monitoring of biodiversity by combining analyses performed by technologies installed in the field. XNatura demonstrates and rewards companies' commitment to environmental improvement and biodiversity conservation, also involving the private sector in the creation of an extensive monitoring network.

XNatura is a state-of-the-art technological solution that allows monitoring biodiversity efficiently. The main components are:
- Flora: an artificial intelligence-based analysis model, developed in collaboration with ESA. Flora uses satellite imagery to assess habitat diversity in the area of interest. By comparing the area under investigation with the surrounding area and analysing changes over time, Flora provides detailed information on the quality and integrity of the habitat.
- Spectrum: an IoT sensor, to be installed directly in the field, which analyses the sounds of the surrounding environment. Through advanced algorithms, it calculates the numerosity and variety of pollinators present.
Using the data collected by Flora and Spectrum, 3Bee draws up targeted and concrete improvement plans, based on objective and accurate information that effectively communicates the commitment to biodiversity conservation.

What is the role of innovation in the ecological transition? What strategies have changed the business model from an environmental perspective? To answer these questions, and more, we have launched the project Pillole dall'Oasi: la Digital Academy by 3Bee for Sustainability Professionals, realised in collaboration with Neutralia and Italian Tech Academy. A course composed of 12 modules dedicated to training on topics related to business sustainability, with the involvement of 23 experts from the world of research, innovation, business and finance. An opportunity not only for training, but to join an exclusive community to receive monthly updates on news from the world of sustainability. Do you want to make your commitment to protecting the environment tangible and ensure the best training for your employees?