#SWEM Innovations in tackling snow and ice – modern technologies in EU cities

As part of the information and awareness-raising campaign for the “Sustainable Weather Emergency Management (SWEM)” project, under the Interreg NEXT Romania–Ukraine 2021–2027 programme, we are sharing approaches that help European cities tackle snow and ice more effectively and sustainably. Today, the pace of innovation in winter road maintenance is accelerating faster than ever, and many solutions are already delivering tangible results.

European cities are increasingly moving away from traditional methods towards smart technologies. The use of sensors makes it possible to monitor the temperature of the road surface and predict the formation of ice even before it appears. This helps to reduce the amount of de-icing agents used and to target treatment precisely, rather than ‘blindly’. Some cities are introducing automatic warning systems that alert authorities when road surfaces begin to cool to a critical temperature, enabling maintenance crews to take action in good time.

Smart routing for machinery is also proving its effectiveness, with algorithms planning clearing routes to reduce fuel consumption and operating time. At the same time, the use of more environmentally friendly de-icing materials is expanding – ranging from organic additives to special coatings that naturally reduce ice formation.

Winter maintenance is no longer merely a reaction to the weather – it is becoming part of the digital and sustainable transformation of urban management. European practices demonstrate that technology can not only ensure safety but also reduce environmental impact, make more efficient use of resources and help cities become resilient to climate change.

This publication has been produced with the assistance of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of Executive Committee of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or of the Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania-Ukraine Programme 2021- 2027 management structures.

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