Monitoring for Temperature and Soil Humidity for large Park and Gardens

Challenges:

1. Elevated irrigation expenses
2. Increasing frequency of heat waves exceeding 40°C
3. Limited insights for park residents and visitors

Solution:

Innovatively addressing these challenges, the project deployed a network comprising over 200 Senstick Agri (SSM30) soil sensors and 50 Senstick Urban (SMC30) microclimate sensors. These sensors recorded soil moisture and air temperature, and, in conjunction with weather forecasts, the captured microclimate data was employed to optimize the park's active cooling management. This approach significantly contributes to mitigating urban heat and reassuring residents about outdoor safety. The project employs recycled water exclusively for cooling, serving as a large-scale prototype showcasing how intelligent water management can slash irrigation costs and alleviate strain on water resources. Additionally, park visitors can conveniently use their mobile phones to identify optimal spots for picnics or exercise.

Benefits:

1. 15% reduction in irrigation expenses
2. Provision of real-time microclimate information to combat urban heat islands
3. Potential to expand safe zones by seamlessly integrating additional sensors.

The initiative known as the Smart Parks Can Cool Our Cities, put forth by Western Sydney University, underwent a cost-benefit analysis initiated by the NSW Government. The results affirmed enhanced well-being through heightened park visitation and adherence to various Principles of Governance, encompassing ethical conduct and purposeful governance. Anticipated water conservation will contribute to the creation of additional green spaces, and the intellectual property generated by the project will be made available as open-source.

Dr. Professor Pfautsch from Western Sydney University declares, "Artificial intelligence now governs the timing and quantity of water distributed throughout an entire park to enhance its microclimate."

A team of experts led by WSU researchers is undertaking the ambitious task of transforming the 40-hectare Bicentennial Park at Sydney Olympic Park into the most temperature-friendly public park in the state. Named SIMPaCT (Smart Irrigation Management for Parks and Cool Towns), this collaborative project involves government agencies, universities, and private industry. It leverages artificial intelligence and advanced technology to cool the park's microclimate for both residents and visitors. The integration of cutting-edge scientific methods is essential for monitoring water usage and temperatures, enabling the Sydney Olympic Park Authority to optimize its water management and irrigation system.

SIMPaCT aims to integrate environmental monitoring and artificial intelligence throughout a vast public park, ensuring the creation of the most comfortable microclimates for residents and visitors, particularly amid escalating summer temperatures. This initiative introduces innovation, state-of-the-art science, technology, and, ultimately, enhances climate resilience in Sydney. Upon full operationalization, SIMPaCT will dynamically manage the irrigation schedule based on factors such as soil moisture levels, vegetation/landscape conditions, and weather forecasts.

The project receives substantial support, including a $2.5 million grant from the NSW Government's Digital Restart Fund. Additionally, Sydney Water is a significant contributor to the overall funding of the project. Associate Professor Sebastian Pfautsch, the project creator and research lead from Western Sydney University's School of Social Sciences, anticipates a transformative impact on the utilization of recreational spaces in the future.

Leveraging state-of-the-art scientific methods, the initiative meticulously monitors water consumption and temperatures, empowering the Sydney Olympic Park Authority to optimize its water management and irrigation system.

As an integral component of this groundbreaking project, a network exceeding 250 environmental sensors by Senzemo records soil moisture and air temperature. In conjunction with weather forecasts, the captured data is harnessed to precisely calibrate the park's active cooling management.

Distinguished by its exclusive use of recycled water, this project serves as a comprehensive prototype showcasing the prowess of intelligent water management in alleviating stress on our most crucial natural resource. Furthermore, park visitors gain the convenience of checking their mobile phones to identify optimal locations for picnics or exercise, enhancing their overall experience.