Demonstration projects

Understanding and protecting the Forth Valley's environment

The Forth Valley is home to a diverse landscape of rivers, lochs, and wetlands, all of which play a vital role in the region’s ecosystem. To safeguard these natural resources, researchers and environmental experts are harnessing cutting-edge technology to monitor and protect the environment in real-time. We have demonstration projects showing how technology and science can work together to build a more sustainable future for the Forth Valley.

Forth-ERA: A digital observatory for the Forth Valley

The Forth Environmental Resilience Array (Forth-ERA) is a ground breaking project that provides a real-time, data-driven approach to environmental monitoring. Using satellites, in-field sensors and advanced digital modelling, the observatory helps provide evidence for informed decision-making about water quality, flood occurrence, peatland performance and wider environmental management.

Forth-ERA

Gartmorn Dam: A living laboratory for environmental research

At Gartmorn Dam in Clackmannanshire, the University of Stirling is leading a project that combines satellite technology and sensor data to track environmental changes. This research helps detect pollution, monitor biodiversity, and assess flood risks—providing valuable insights for conservation and climate resilience. The project also engages local communities, encouraging public involvement in protecting their natural surroundings.

Gartmorn Dam