Five EU-funded projects, including DARROW, hosted a workshop in Brussels for an insightful exchange on AI, Data, and Robotics in advancing green optimisation across industries.
How can digital innovation enhance both sustainability and competitiveness in European industries? Experts, policymakers, and researchers gathered to discuss this question at the Future-Ready On-Demand Solutions with AI, Data, and Robotics event, organised by Adra – AI-Data-Robotics Association and the AI-on-Demand Platform, in Brussels on February 18-19. Together with four other EU projects from the Green Deal cluster, DARROW organised a workshop on green optimisation.
Harnessing AI for smarter wastewater treatment
We explored how AI-driven solutions can optimise resource recovery and operational efficiency in water resource recovery facilities. Luis Vitores Valcárcel García (CEIT) from Team DARROW demonstrated how predictive AI models and real-time monitoring can transform wastewater treatment plants. Specifically, he highlighted how digital twins and advanced analytics can enable facilities like the Tilburg plant in the Netherlands to enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve resource recovery from wastewater. Ultimately, the goal of the DARROW tools is to contribute to cleaner ecosystems and a more sustainable future.
Collaboration for a greener future
The joint workshop showcased diverse industry applications where AI and robotics are advancing sustainability. Besides DARROW, four other projects presented their innovations:
- ALCHIMIA: Developing AI-driven solutions for energy-efficient metalworking processes, reducing waste and optimising resource usage.
- CLARUS: Implementing machine learning for sustainable food production, enhancing efficiency while minimising environmental impact.
- RECLAIM: Advancing AI-powered waste material recovery and recycling, with a focus on reducing CO₂ emissions and improving sorting efficiency.
- TUBERS: Designing autonomous robotic systems for pipeline inspection and maintenance, ensuring sustainability in water infrastructure management.
All these projects share a common goal: Enhancing operational efficiency while reducing resource consumption, emissions, and waste.
Key takeaways from the workshop
The workshop reinforced that green optimisation is no longer optional; it is essential for ensuring the long-term viability, resilience, and competitiveness of European industries.
The speakers discussed the opportunities and challenges of adopting digital innovations for sustainability and efficiency:
- AI-driven monitoring and optimisation can significantly reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
- Data standardisation and accessibility are critical for maximising the benefits of digital transformation.
- Cross-sector collaboration accelerates innovation and strengthens sustainability efforts.
- Regulatory and ethical considerations remain a key challenge in AI adoption.
We enjoyed being part of this dynamic exchange. A special thank you to Adra – AI-Data-Robotics Association and the AI-on-Demand Platform for co-hosting this inspiring event and fostering collaboration among EU projects. Find the presentations and video recordings of the session below.