The power of data lies in its value to help us understand the world around us, to predict the impact of choices that we make and, with this knowledge, to make evidence-based decisions.

This makes it an essential resource to meet the objectives of the Green Deal, including those related to climate change, the circular economy, pollution, biodiversity and deforestation. Data can enable the development of environmentally friendly transport and energy systems, as well as greener and more sustainable cities. For example, a digital twin of the earth, fuelled by data, is being developed to visualize, monitor and forecast natural and human activity on the planet. This will be used to develop and test scenarios for more sustainable development. Digital ‘product passports’ can provide information on a product’s origin, durability, composition, reuse, repair and dismantling possibilities, and end-of-life handling. This is crucial for the development of the circular economy.

This CONNECT University session explored how data will help reach the Green Deal objectives. Participants learned how data on the way we live, eat, consume and travel can be used to understand and monitor our environment, and why this is key to the future of our planet.