Dundee Pilot Report

The Urban ReLeaf Dundee pilot is part of a wider Horizon Europe initiative to co-create citizen-powered data ecosystems that support inclusive, climate-resilient urban transitions.

The Dundee pilot primarily focused on the Greenspace Perceptions Campaign, followed by a smaller-scale Air Quality Campaign. Both campaigns were designed to engage citizens in shaping the future of their city through participatory science and data collection.

Greenspace Perceptions Campaign

Launched in July 2024, the Greenspace Perceptions Campaign invited residents to share their experiences of Dundee’s parks, play areas, and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS). Through the Urban ReLeaf Cities app, web-based surveys, and redesigned paper formats, the campaign gathered perceptual, spatial, and environmental data across 43 greenspaces in all eight city wards. The campaign prioritised inclusion, with a target of 30-40% participation from marginalised communities, and used creative, pop-up engagement to reach residents where they naturally gather.

The campaign’s three thematic strands, Park, Play, and SUDS, enabled the collection of diverse, community-sourced insights into how different types of greenspaces are experienced and valued across the city. Insights are already informing local planning frameworks such as the Open Space Strategy, Local Development Plan and Biodiversity Action Plan. The campaign also supported community-led initiatives, such as greenspace upgrades and funding bids, and demonstrated the value of citizen science in shaping equitable urban environments.

Air Quality Campaign

The Air Quality Campaign, initiated in October 2025, complements Dundee’s active travel and public health goals by addressing vehicle idling near schools. Two low-cost air quality sensors will be installed outside selected schools to monitor pollution levels and raise awareness of the health and climate impacts of car emissions. The campaign aims to engage students in real-world STEM learning and promote behaviour change through citizen science. It builds on partnerships with Dundee City Council’s Active Transport team and aligns with broader efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality in vulnerable communities.

While still in early stages, the Air Quality Campaign is expected to generate valuable environmental data and foster intergenerational engagement around clean air and sustainable mobility.