Connecting mobility and environmental data for smarter, cleaner cities
Interview conducted by Kalina Tsvetanova
“Cities often struggle with traffic congestion and pollution because the data they rely on - like roadworks information - is incomplete or outdated.”
This challenge sits at the heart of the Traffic Flow Data Space (TFDS) pilot, which brings together Helsinki (Finland) and Porto (Portugal) to explore how better data sharing can improve urban mobility and air quality.
The pilot integrates multiple types of data, including Floating Car Data, planned roadworks, and air quality measurements, to create a more accurate picture of what is happening on the streets. Tools such as the IDEA algorithm validate whether planned road closures actually affect traffic, while the AirQ application links traffic flow with local pollution levels. Together, these services aim to support more responsive and informed traffic management.
The motivation for the cities is clear. “Urban congestion and pollution are often worsened by inaccurate or fragmented roadworks data.” By combining real-time traffic insights with planned infrastructure information, the pilot helps cities better understand disruptions and respond more effectively.
According to the TFDS pilot, Ddata ppaces is about breaking down data silos. It creates “a secure and trusted environment where public and private actors can share data while still keeping control over it”. This represents a shift toward a more decentralised and collaborative data ecosystem.
For cities interested in exploring data spaces, the starting point is practical. “A strong use case that clearly requires data sharing between multiple actors is essential.” This ensures that the effort goes beyond simply sharing open data and instead leverages the full potential of controlled, value-driven data exchange.
The pilot itself is already at an advanced stage. The core components are running in a cloud environment, while visualisation tools are nearing completion. At the same time, work is ongoing to enable cross-border data sharing between Helsinki and Porto, highlighting the ambition to scale beyond local implementations. Before this initiative, data sharing in participating cities was already relatively mature but still fragmented. “Accessing and combining datasets often required separate processes and coordination across departments.” The data space approach simplifies this by harmonising data and enabling more seamless cross-sector use, while also increasing control over sensitive information.
Concrete solutions are already emerging. The pilot focuses on refining an algorithm to better assess the real impact of roadworks, while also developing dashboards that visualise traffic conditions and their environmental effects. These tools make complex data easier to interpret, helping city officials detect congestion and understand its broader consequences.
Even at this stage, early changes are visible. “There is growing demand from both public and private sectors for more unified data exchange,” alongside increasing interest in data space initiatives. This signals a broader shift towards more structured and collaborative data ecosystems.
Looking ahead, the long-term vision is ambitious. “Within 5 to 10 years, a fully functioning data space could enable a thriving data economy,” where public authorities and private actors alike benefit from sharing data in a secure and controlled way. This would not only improve services but also create new opportunities for innovation.
One important lesson stands out: “Data space technology is still evolving, but this should be seen as an opportunity rather than a barrier.” Cities and organisations that engage early can help shape the standards and solutions of the future, positioning themselves at the forefront of a more connected and data-driven urban landscape.
Curious to learn more about the Pilot? Read here
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