We are searching for topics and funders for the next Longitude Prize. This idea is a draft for discussion about one possible prize focus that we are exploring.
What is the problem? Pollution and extreme heat in cities are big killers, but we often can't do much to predict, let alone prevent, them. Urban data silos create a lag between heat, pollution, and public health signals. Legal and technical barriers between stakeholders mean we only react once hospital admissions spike, closing the window for preventative action. Why does the solution contribute to solving this? This intelligence platform synchronises environmental sensors and smart city infrastructure with clinical feeds to detect early signals and enable preventative action – such as restricting vehicles, adjusting traffic lights or increasing irrigation of green areas – to protect vulnerable populations. Who is the prize awarded to? Awarded to the team that develops an intelligent network of sensors, data and software that can gives dramatically earlier diagnosis of oncoming extreme heat or air quality events, and intervenes to actively manage city infrastructure to measurably cut incidence of heatstroke and respiratory conditions. Check out the other ideas
The best prize ideas are developed through extensive research and engagement with experts, stakeholders and people with lived experience of the problems they are focused on. We start with a first draft like the one above – then work to improve, refine and validate our thinking. If you are interested in sharing your expertise, or helping us secure funding for the next Longitude Prize, please reach out.