Our mission is clearly formulated: To make knowledge accessible to all using environmentally friendly solutions and AI-based technology. Photogrammetry, a technology used by OpenTerra to create precise 3D models and maps from photographs, optimizing the planning and design of urban spaces, and advanced artificial intelligence are at the heart of developing the intelligent landscape planner ChatILP.
But behind this is a whole universe of topics that fascinate us and in which we see the need to make knowledge available to even more planners, architects and engineers, as well as students, and to make it more accessible. This motivates us to delve deeper into the topics in order to make the conglomerate of all these areas of knowledge into a whole. And the whole thing will never be finished, because we will never stop being researchers and developers and using the new technologies for us humans so that we can get back to our true nature. Both externally and internally. We are convinced that change can only come about, germinate and ultimately take root through education and awareness.
We want to motivate, inspire and encourage our readership to enter into dialog with us in order to shape the future together. To constantly expand our network and bring together specialists and experts so that we can think even bigger together.
Our focus: Sustainable urban development with innovative technologies
OpenTerra is a pioneer in sustainable urban development, using innovative approaches and technologies to promote green-blue infrastructures. With the intelligent landscape planner ChatILP and other advanced tools, we focus on combining ecology and technology to make urban spaces fit for the future. In this article, we present the central themes that characterize our work and which we will discuss in more detail in future blog articles.
But before we go into depth and into medias res, we will tell you here what moves and occupies us, and what you will be able to read more about here in the future or, from 2025, what you will be able to learn more about with specialists in our OpenTerra Online Academy. Or maybe you yourself will be our next academy expert, who knows...
Green-blue infrastructure in urban areas
The challenges of climate change and increasing urbanization require sustainable approaches to urban water management. Green-blue infrastructures offer solutions to overcome these challenges and strengthen the resilience of our cities. These systems integrate natural and artificial water cycles in urban areas, such as green roofs, permeable surfaces, bioretention systems for storing, cleaning and filtering rainwater, wetlands and urban lakes.
Rainwater management and water purification
Green-blue infrastructures play a crucial role in rainwater management. Green roofs and permeable surfaces allow for the storage and slow release of stormwater, reducing runoff and relieving pressure on drainage infrastructure. Bioretention systems and constructed wetlands purify collected water by filtering out pollutants and improving water quality.
Targeted water release to the vegetation
A central aspect of green-blue infrastructure is the targeted release of water to urban vegetation. Stored rainwater can be used to irrigate plants and trees in urban areas, especially during dry periods. Intelligent storage tanks and irrigation systems increase efficiency by only releasing water when it is needed.
Promotion of biodiversity
Green-blue infrastructures promote biodiversity in urban areas by creating habitats for various plant and animal species. Urban wetlands and bioretention systems provide habitats for birds, insects and amphibians. Green roofs and green walls support the growth of a variety of plant species and provide food sources and habitats for urban wildlife.
Improving the microclimate and quality of life
Vegetated systems such as green roofs and green walls help to cool ambient temperatures, reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. These green elements provide aesthetically pleasing recreational spaces and improve the urban microclimate, resulting in a higher quality of life for residents.
Integration of digital technologies
By using intelligent software solutions such as OpenTerra's, relevant analyses can be made in advance to efficiently integrate green-blue infrastructures in urban areas. These technologies enable more precise planning and optimization of water management by providing real-time data and supporting decision-making. ChatILP, the intelligent landscape planner, is at the heart of OpenTerra's digital solutions. This AI-based software supports planners, architects, engineers and other professionals in designing sustainable urban spaces. With a user-friendly interface and advanced analysis tools, ChatILP offers customized solutions for complex planning tasks.
Intuitive user interface and dynamic feedback
ChatILP enables simple and intuitive modeling through a smart user interface. The virtual assistant Olaia provides dynamic feedback and communicates directly with users to support optimal planning decisions. This interactive component makes using the software particularly effective and user-friendly.
The importance of research and innovation
OpenTerra relies on continuous research and innovation to meet the challenges of sustainable urban development. Our projects and partnerships with leading research institutes, such as the Fraunhofer Institute Italia, enable us to stay at the forefront of technological developments and develop practical solutions.
At home in the NOI Techpark
The NOI Techpark in Bolzano offers us an ideal environment for research and development. Thanks to the proximity to established companies, other start-ups, research institutions and the university, we can exploit synergies and drive innovative ideas forward. This fruitful collaboration promotes the exchange of knowledge and expertise, which ultimately leads to better solutions for urban development.
The future role of the OpenTerra Online Academy
Knowledge transfer and further education are central components of our mission. The OpenTerra Online Academy is intended to provide a platform for training courses, workshops and e-learning modules that impart specialist knowledge about sustainable urban development and innovative technologies. Through these educational offerings, we aim to empower professionals and interested parties to actively contribute to shaping sustainable cities. Our online seminars and interactive modules cover a wide range of topics, from technical aspects of urban planning to ecological principles and best practices. These offerings are designed to provide hands-on knowledge and equip participants with the necessary skills for sustainable and innovative projects.
Community building and exchange
The OpenTerra Academy promotes exchange and networking between experts from different disciplines. Through regular events, discussion forums and network meetings, we offer a platform for dialog and collaboration that enables new perspectives and creative solutions.
We are excited to establish OpenTerra as a portal for connecting ecology and technology to create sustainable urban spaces. This is just the beginning...
