Remote and in situ environmental surveillance of urban streams to support public health issues
Urban streams are increasingly recognized as critical indicators of environmental health and public well‑being. Yet, they face mounting pressures from pollution, urbanization, and climate change. In his recent presentation at the European Public Health Conference, Mr. Stratos Kokolakis, Ph.D., who represents the Hellenic Mediterranean University, Greece and HL7 Europe, introduced a novel framework for monitoring urban streams that integrates remote sensing, in situ measurements, GIS technologies, and citizen science.
The approach aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and public health practice by providing evidence‑based insights into water quality, biodiversity, and pollution risks. By applying the FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable), the framework ensures that environmental and health data can be shared across disciplines and used to inform timely interventions.
A distinctive element of the presentation was the emphasis on community involvement. Citizen scientists play a central role in data collection and awareness‑raising, helping to transform monitoring into a participatory process that strengthens resilience against environmental and health risks.
Kokolakis concluded that combining advanced technologies with community engagement offers a powerful tool for identifying pollution hotspots, guiding policy decisions, and fostering healthier, more resilient urban ecosystems. His work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling the complex challenges at the intersection of environment and public health.
Download the full presentaion here.
Source: E Kokinou, S Kokolakis, M Karagiannidou, M Anastasaki, C Chronaki, OA24555. Remote and in situ environmental surveillance of urban streams to support public health issues, European Journal of Public Health, Volume 35, Issue Supplement_5, November 2025, ckaf165.040, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckaf165.040
Author(s): Mr. Stratos Kokolakis, HL7 Europe