Mapping Urban Heat and Vulnerability in Novi Sad, Serbia with EO
GDA Urban Sustainability activity worked with EBRD to utilise Earth Observation (EO) data and interactive tools to help Novi Sad, Serbia identify heat hotspots and plan targeted cooling solutions for climate resilience.
Description
Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are increasing climate risks across European cities, with urban areas like Novi Sad in Serbia particularly affected by the Urban Heat Island effect. Limited green space, dense built environments, and heat-retaining surfaces intensify exposure, impacting public health, productivity, and overall urban livability. To support climate adaptation, ESA’s GDA Urban Sustainability activity is working with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to map heat patterns and identify vulnerable populations across the city.
Using the Urban Microclimate Analysis Platform (UMAP), the project combines satellite-derived temperature data, population information, and street-level measurements to provide detailed insights into heat hotspots and vulnerability. The platform enables planners to explore heat patterns over time, assess risk, and test cooling strategies such as urban greening. By translating complex EO data into accessible, decision-ready tools, the project supports targeted investments and climate-resilient urban planning in Novi Sad, while offering a scalable model for other cities.
Read more about this case study here: Cooling the City: How EO is supporting heat resilience in Novi Sad