Next Event – IoT Sparks 2025 in Valencia

Decentlab will participate in IoT Sparks, an initiative of Loriot, on October 7, 2025, in Valencia – a one-day event dedicated to innovative ideas, cutting-edge technologies and meaningful dialogue in the Internet of Things.

The event brings together startups, researchers and industry leaders to exchange insights on impactful applications – from environmental monitoring and precision agriculture to smart infrastructure.

We look forward to sharing our expertise in real-time sensor solutions and to exploring how IoT can shape a smarter, more sustainable future – together.

Visit us at IoT Sparks – we’d be pleased to meet you there.

When the Forest Speaks – Real-Time Data meets Sound Art

Trees grow mainly at night – a surprising finding revealed by our customer and partner TreeNet. With high-precision dendrometers installed on more than 600 trees across Switzerland, stem radius is recorded every ten minutes. These continuous measurements provide unique data on growth, water balance, and drought stress.

Three core indicators – stem growth, tree water deficit, and maximum stem shrinkage – allow researchers to assess tree vitality and species-specific responses to changing environmental conditions. Combined with soil and climate data, they make drought stress visible in real time and open new perspectives for forest monitoring.

Beyond the data, sound artist Marcus Maeder adds another dimension by translating environmental and climate signals into sound. In collaboration with scientists from TreeNet, he makes climate change literally audible – showing what rising temperatures mean for forests and ecosystems in ways that go beyond abstract numbers. Featured in the 3sat nano program (from 11:18) with Decentlab sensors in action.

Whether visible through TreeNet data or audible through sound art – these approaches make the impacts of climate change tangible and provide valuable foundations for resilient forest management.

Read full article
Watch TV program (only german)

Temporary Trees, Lasting Impact: Bringing Green to Zurich

The hot summer days in Zurich may be over for now – but the challenge remains: in densely built-up areas, heat accumulates, creating the so-called Urban Heat Island effect. Busy, paved streets like Bahnhofstrasse heat up particularly quickly.

To counter this, the city of Zurich is testing new ways to bring greenery into the city center. As part of the pilot project "Grünes Gastspiel", around 50 young trees have been temporarily placed in special containers along Bahnhofstrasse. These allow trees to grow even on heavily paved areas, with integrated water storage and secure anchoring. The greenery is monitored with sensors measuring soil moisture, CO₂, and barometric pressure, enabling real-time tracking and providing valuable insights into the long-term potential of temporary urban greenery in Zurich.

The project aims to make the benefits of greenery visible and tangible: more shade, improved public spaces, and a more vibrant urban environment. While trees naturally thrive in soil, early positive results from temporary plantings are already evident.

Read more

Devices for monitoring urban heat islands:
DL-BLG, DL-SHT35, DL-ATM22, 
DL-ATM41G2

Wildlife meets DL-ATM41 in Action

Sometimes Decentlab's weather stations are not only valued for their precise measurements but also attract the curiosity of local wildlife. Pictured here: a DL-ATM41 with unusual visitors – an owl perched on the bird guard, a deer passing by, and even a fox making an appearance.

The scene impressively demonstrates the stability of the bird guard: despite its delicate appearance, it easily supports the weight of a fully grown owl. Unfortunately, the owl is not bothered by the bird deterrent. It remains unimpressed and uses the weather station as a lookout point. Every rule has its exception.

Meanwhile, the new generation –
DL-ATM41G2 | Eleven Parameter Weather Station for LoRaWAN® – is now available, offering even more precise measurements and enhanced performance. It records parameters such as air temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed and direction, solar radiation – and much more.

For this installation, our customer has also added a protective net that reliably shields the cables from curious animals, ensuring uninterrupted operation. The result: consistently high-quality weather data – no matter what appears in front of the lens or on the sensor.

Many thanks to our customer, a forest landowner near Zurich, for sharing these impressive photos and video.

Early Detection of Changes in Infiltration Capacity

Eawag — one of the world’s leading water research institutes — specializes in innovative research in aquatic science.

Bioretention cells are an important element in stormwater management: they capture water from sealed surfaces, reduce surface runoff, and promote groundwater recharge. However, the infiltration performance of such systems changes over time — often unnoticed until irregularities are detected during maintenance.

At Eawag and Empa’s campus, this process is systematically monitored. Surface ponding and soil moisture are continuously measured to gain a better understanding of the underlying processes. For this purpose, Eawag relies on Decentlab’s DL-TRS12 | Soil Moisture, Temperature and Electrical Conductivity Sensor for LoRaWAN® and DL-MBX | Ultrasonic Distance / Level Sensor for LoRaWAN®.

The collected data supports not only scientific research but also the development of methods for the early detection of changes in infiltration performance.

Visualization of Groundwater Data in Europe

Groundwater is one of the most vital freshwater resources worldwide – yet it faces increasing pressure from overuse, climate change, and land-use changes. Securing this resource is crucial for agriculture, industry, and everyday water needs.

The Water-Land-Nexus platform offers engaging interactive web dashboards that provide detailed insights into how Europe’s groundwater resources are used, distributed, and stressed. Developed by ISOE - Institute for Social-Ecological Research as part of the EU project regulate, it visualizes:

• Areas experiencing high groundwater stress and usage conflicts

• Long-distance water use and spatial interconnections that reveal far-reaching impacts

• Regional water consumption patterns and existing data gaps critical for future monitoring

The platform demonstrates how complex hydrological and social data can be combined to make the current status and future risks transparent. It highlights the importance of reliable, location-specific sensor data for developing sustainable water management strategies.

Visit dashboards

Devices for groundwater monitoring: 
DL-PR26, DL-PR36, DL-CTD10B

Smart Tech for Water-Wise Agriculture

With growing water scarcity and climate change, new technologies are reshaping how we grow food. The so-called nexus approach aims to link water, energy, and food production into one smart system — parts of it are already in use, others still under development.

Sensors and AI-driven irrigation are proven tools: water is only used when and where plants need it. Solar panels already power many greenhouse systems, and methods like hydroponics and aeroponics reduce water consumption through closed-loop systems.

Other technologies — like harvesting water from air, passive cooling with radiative materials, or digital twins to simulate growing conditions — are technically feasible but still in early-stage pilots.

The vision: self-sufficient, resource-efficient greenhouses that can operate anywhere — from high-tech farms to smallholder operations. The full system isn’t market-ready yet, but the path forward is clear. And one thing is certain: without accurate data, none of it works. Smart measurement is the foundation of sustainable agriculture.

Devices for smart agriculture: 
DL-GMM, DL-PAR, DL-TRS12, DL-TRS21, DL-SMTP, DL-ISF,
DL-LWS

Read full article

CO₂ Monitoring in Zurich – Study Highlights Effectiveness of Sensor Networks Integrated by Decentlab

Decentlab is proud to have contributed to the successful ZiCOS‑M project, a part of ICOS Cities. The project, run by Empa Laboratory for Air Pollution / Environmental Technology aimed to map the distribution and dynamics of CO₂ across the city of Zurich over two years, examining how CO₂ concentrations vary spatially and temporally, and how factors like traffic, vegetation, and wind affect these patterns.

A key focus was on using mid-cost sensors devices, including those from Decentlab, which, after careful calibration, provide reliable data and represent a cost-effective alternative to classical high-precision instruments. The study integrated three different sensor models into very similar monitoring systems integrated by Decentlab. Decentlab also provided the platforms for measurements and LoRaWAN-based data transmission.

Key findings:

• CO₂ concentrations in Zurich averaged about 15 ppm above the regional background.

• Significant fluctuations occurred at night and near forested areas, with values sometimes even exceeding 700 ppm.

• On some days, CO₂-poor air from the surrounding rural areas was transported into the city.

• After calibration, the sensors delivered precise and reliable data, comparable to expensive reference instruments.

Why it matters:
The study confirms that cost-effective and reliable sensor networks, like those deployed by Decentlab, offer a practical solution for better monitoring urban CO₂ emissions. This enables cities to track air quality more accurately and to plan targeted climate protection measures.

Full study

Heatwave in Europe: The Impacts of Heat

In June 2025, Europe experienced an exceptional heatwave with record temperatures: up to 46.6 °C in Spain and Portugal, the warmest June since 1884 in the UK, and numerous days over 40 °C in Central Europe. Data show that June 2025 was one of the hottest Junes in Europe’s history, with average temperatures about 2.5 °C higher than a century ago. In Switzerland, temperatures rose by 3.7 °C compared to the 1991–2020 average. This extreme heat caused health risks, wildfires, and disruptions to daily life.

To better understand and respond to these developments, reliable data are essential. The Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (BAFU) provides current information on drought and risks through the National Drought Platform.

The consequences of heatwaves are wide-ranging, affecting health, ecosystems, agriculture, and infrastructure. A comprehensive overview of these impacts can be found in an informativ article on "dieumwelt".

As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe due to climate change, sensor-based monitoring networks play an increasingly important role. They support informed decision-making and help strengthen resilience against heat and drought.

Devices for urban climate monitoring: 
DL-BLG, DL-WRM, DL-ATM22, DL-SHT35

Old Water, New Insights

At the ETH Zurich forest lab, environmental engineers are investigating the so-called "old water paradox." Their findings are not only scientifically intriguing but also highly relevant for addressing climate change and forest conservation. The research employs a range of sensors placed in the soil, on trees and in streams – including many devices from Decentlab.

"Old water paradox"
Even during heavy rain, most of the water in the soil and streams comes from older sources — sometimes months or even years old. Only a small portion comes from recent rainfall.

Data brings clarity
Thousands of water samples show that even at just 10 cm depth, about two-thirds of the water is more than three weeks old.

Winter is crucial
Soil primarily stores water during the leafless winter season. Dry winters are therefore especially critical for water availability in summer.

Litter Layer’s Big Role
About 18% of rainfall is retained in leaves, needles, and deadwood — much more than previously thought. Only 60% of the rain actually infiltrates the soil.

Different tree strategies
Beeches use water more lavishly than spruces. The latter conserve water earlier — at the expense of photosynthesis.

Practical relevance
These findings support flood risk assessment, climate-resilient forest management, and tree species selection.

Soil quality matters
Humus-rich soil with plenty of deadwood stores significantly more water. Biodiversity also increases a forest’s resilience to climate stress.

The continuous measurements provide valuable data for the entire research community. The complete datasets are planned to be published and made freely accessible in 2025.

Read full article
Watch video (german only)

The Future of Smart Cities with IoT & AI

The combination of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming urban environments. These technologies make cities more efficient, safer, and sustainable by connecting devices with intelligent algorithms. The need for resilient infrastructure, effective resource management, and proactive safety is growing. AI enhances IoT by enabling real-time decisions and predictive analytics to manage growing populations while reducing environmental impact.

Key applications include:

Predictive maintenance: Sensors monitor critical infrastructure like bridges, water, and power systems. AI detects potential failures early to enable timely repairs.

Environmental monitoring: Sensors track air quality, water pollution, and noise; AI provides actionable insights for policymakers and citizens.

Emergency management: AI-driven IoT systems quickly detect disasters and safety incidents, coordinating efficient responses.

The combination of IoT sensors and AI is set to transform cities, making them smarter, safer, and more sustainable. The key challenge remains to ensure these technologies are accessible, secure, and equitable for all.

Bottom line: Smart cities depend on reliable, high-quality sensor data to drive informed, AI-powered decisions.

Read full article

Dramatic Glacier Collapse in the Swiss Alps

On May 28, 2025, the Swiss mountain village of Blatten (Valais) was struck by one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent Swiss history: A massive glacier collapse buried approximately 90% of the village beneath millions of tons of ice, rock, and debris.

In the weeks leading up to the event, sensors detected unusual movements on the unstable mountain slope. Continuous, automated measurements – including slope acceleration, temperature changes, and crack formation – allowed scientists and local authorities to assess the danger and evacuate the village in time. These systems provide real-time data around the clock, enabling quick and well-informed decisions in critical situations. Today, they are an indispensable tool in natural hazard mitigation.

Disasters like this underscore the vital importance of reliable environmental monitoring in sensitive alpine regions. The earlier signs of instability are detected, the greater the window for action – and the better the chances of protecting lives.

At Decentlab, our thoughts are with everyone affected in Blatten. We hope for a safe and steady recovery of the village.

Report about the monitoring in use at the site Blatten

Sap Flow Data show Grapevines withstand extreme Heat

Grapevines can tolerate extreme heatwaves when soil moisture is maintained through irrigation. This was demonstrated in a study conducted in the Riverina region (NSW, Australia), where phytomonitoring stations equipped with sap flow sensors, dendrometers, as well as temperature and humidity sensors were installed on various grapevine varieties. Despite temperatures exceeding 40 °C, sap flow remained stable as the vines were able to absorb sufficient water.

Sap flow is a commonly used indicator of plant health, as a decrease in sap flow often indicates stress. In this study, sap flow in the vines remained positively correlated with increasing temperatures. Such measurements are essential for better understanding the effects of heatwaves on crops and for developing targeted irrigation strategies. These findings highlight the importance of irrigation management during heatwaves, particularly in viticulture.

Read full article

Devices for grapevines and irrigation control: DL-ISF, DL-ZN,
DL-LWS, DL-ILT, DL-TRS12, DL-TRS21

Impact of Traffic on Noise and Particulate Matter

The "Modus Sain" research project, conducted by the School of Engineering and Architecture in Freiburg (Switzerland), investigated the impact of traffic on noise and particulate matter. Using sensors installed at fixed locations and on electric buses, data on air quality, traffic, and noise levels were collected.

Sensors and Measurement Methods:

• At twelve fixed locations throughout the city of Freiburg, sensors for noise and particulate matter were installed.

• Additionally, three particulate matter sensors were mounted on electric buses, allowing the buses to function as mobile monitoring stations. This approach enabled spatially flexible and comprehensive air quality monitoring.

• This combination of stationary and mobile sensors provided high measurement accuracy and allowed for data comparison between fixed and moving points.

Results:

• Traffic volume and particulate matter levels correlate. Particulate matter values more strongly reacted when vehicles with poor filters were involved. Meteorological conditions had a significant impact on particulate matter levels.

• There was a clear correlation between traffic and noise: more traffic led to more noise. Speed reductions (such as lowering the speed limit to 30 km/h) significantly reduced noise pollution.

The project is expected to be expanded in the future to include additional parameters such as temperature and humidity, alongside noise and particulate matter measurements.

Read full article

Devices for urban air quality and climate monitoring:
DL-PM, DL-SHT35, DL-ATM22,
DL-ATM41G2, DL-TBRG, DL-BLG

Environmental Sensors for Urban Development

The city of Pforzheim is launching a LoRaWAN-based climate data measurement network to address the impacts of climate change, such as heat, drought, and heavy rainfall. Since 2024, the city has installed initial environmental sensors, including the DL-ITST-002 | Infrared Thermometer / Surface Temperature Sensor for LoRaWAN from Decentlab, which provides precise surface temperature data. These measurements will serve as the foundation for climate adaptation measures and support urban development. A key issue in Pforzheim is heatwaves and flooding, caused by sealed surfaces and an overburdened drainage system.

Additionally, the "sponge city" concept is being tested at Pfälzer Platz, where a cistern stores rainwater and an intelligent system delivers it to plants. This approach aims to mitigate heat islands and heavy rainfall. The city plans to analyze the results using the sensors and make the data available to residents via an online platform.

Read full article

Flood Risk on the Rise

A recent study by the Wegener Center at the University of Graz explores how climate change is influencing "cut-off lows" (COLs) — upper-level low-pressure systems that become detached from the jet stream. These systems can linger over the same area for days, often bringing persistent heavy rainfall and increasing the risk of flooding.

By analyzing 18 climate models, researchers found that COLs are likely to shift further north and occur more often in spring rather than just in summer or fall. Regions like Canada, Northern Europe, Siberia, and China may experience more frequent and intense spring rainfall events.

The study underscores the need for improved flood protection measures such as river restoration and early warning systems to help reduce the impacts of these extreme weather patterns.

Read full article

Devices for flood monitoring: DL-MBX, DL-PR26, DL-LID

Trees absorb more CO₂ than previously thought

A new study from the University of Southern California reveals that urban trees absorb significantly more CO₂ than previously thought. In Los Angeles, researchers monitored atmospheric CO₂ levels over an 18-month period using a dense network of sensors. The findings: during daylight hours, trees absorbed an average of 60 percent of CO₂ emissions — a surprisingly high number, especially in a part of the city not known for its greenery.

Measurements were taken along the city’s prevailing wind direction, with CO₂ levels clearly declining as the air moved through — a strong indicator of the trees’ carbon absorption capabilities. Lead researcher Will Berelson notes that these insights could help other cities more effectively track emissions and strategically plan urban greening initiatives.

Despite the promising results, Berelson cautions: relying solely on urban trees is not enough — emissions must still be significantly reduced.

Read full study

Devices for tree monitoring and optimal irrigation to maximize cooling effect and low operational costs: DL-SMTP, DL-TRS12, DL-SHT35, DL-ATM41G2

China’s Air Quality reveals unexpected Climate Effects

In recent years, China has significantly reduced air pollution, particularly by cutting sulfur dioxide emissions from coal power plants. This has led to major improvements in air quality and saved millions of lives. However, there’s an unexpected downside: sulfur dioxide contributes to the formation of aerosols that reflect sunlight and temporarily cool the climate. When this “shield” is removed, the full warming effect of greenhouse gases becomes more visible—a process known as "unmasking." Since 2014, average temperatures in China have risen by about 0.7 °C, contributing to more intense heatwaves.

Developments like these highlight just how critical accurate environmental monitoring is for understanding the complex relationship between air quality and climate change. 

Read full article

Devices for air quality monitoring: DL-PM, DL-LP8P

Groundwater and Sea-Level Rise: Impacts and Considerations

A new study, "Empirical models of shallow groundwater and multi-hazard flood forecasts as sea-levels rise", by Cox et al. (2025), published in Earth's Future, examines the impact of rising groundwater levels due to sea-level rise (SLR) on coastal cities, with Dunedin, New Zealand, as a case study.

Measurements & Modeling
The study integrates data from monitoring stations and geospatial models to analyze groundwater levels and their responses to tides and rainfall. The models project how these levels will change under different SLR scenarios, predicting areas at risk of flooding from groundwater and coastal inundation.

Challenges
Assessing the risks is difficult because the effects occur gradually, and the thresholds for damage vary. Furthermore, uncertainties arise from assumptions about soil structure and water flow.

Conclusion
The study shows that rising groundwater is an often underestimated threat that will intensify with sea-level rise. Particularly problematic is that groundwater flooding cannot be stopped by topographic barriers and can affect areas far inland.

A key takeaway is that coastal regions must be prepared not only for direct sea flooding but also for "flooding from below." Long-term monitoring programs and adaptive urban planning are crucial to detect damage early and develop countermeasures.

Read full study

Devices for waterlevel & groundwater monitoring: DL-MBX, DL-PR26, DL-PR36, DL-PR36CTD, DL-CTD10B

The Zero Pollution Dashboard

A new dashboard shows the progress in EU regions – Discover the impressive Zero Pollution Dashboard, which provides a comprehensive overview of environmental pollution indicators across EU regions. It's a fascinating opportunity to find out how clean your region is and how local efforts to reduce air, water, and soil pollution are progressing. For example, you can discover which areas in Europe are the cleanest in terms of air quality or how polluted the soil and groundwater are in different regions.

In recent years, European regions have heavily invested in environmental protection, utilizing EU funding to modernize water and wastewater infrastructure, promote sustainable mobility, and tackle air pollution. These measures not only contribute to improving the environment but also promote citizens' health, protect biodiversity, and enhance overall well-being.

Discover Dashboard

Device for air pollution monitoring: DL-PM, Realtime Demo