The FOCAL project, funded by the European Union, is set to revolutionize how we access and utilize climate data. Its primary goal is to empower local communities with the tools and information needed to build resilience against climate change. By developing an open and intelligent platform, FOCAL will provide reliable climate impact assessments, with a focus on critical areas such as urban planning and forestry.

The project will develop a sophisticated platform that combines intelligent workflow management with high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI). This will enable the rapid analysis of vast amounts of data from Earth observation and climate models, providing actionable insights at a local level. FOCAL will not only enhance our understanding of climate change but also foster the development of new applications and services to address its impacts.

FOCAL’s innovative approach will democratise access to climate data, making it accessible to a broader audience beyond the scientific community. By engaging with urban planners, foresters, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the project will ensure that its solutions are tailored to real-world needs. This collaborative, co-design process will drive the creation of a vibrant ecosystem of climate services, promoting sustainable practices and informed decision-making.

Through its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to open data, FOCAL will play a crucial role in advancing climate science and policy. The project will not only improve our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of climate change but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for all. By fostering innovation and collaboration, FOCAL will help to unlock the full potential of climate data for the benefit of society.