In June, Ciências ULisboa took part in the Smart City of Rock, an innovation initiative integrated into Rock in Rio Lisboa and coordinated by the University of Lisbon. Tec Labs coordinated the Faculty’s participation, bringing research projects, startups, and spin-offs closer to thousands of visitors while showcasing how science and innovation can contribute to smarter, more sustainable, and more inclusive cities.
Over the festival’s two weekends, visitors had the opportunity to explore a diverse portfolio of technologies developed within the Ciências ULisboa innovation ecosystem.
During the first weekend, the spotlight was on Agrovoltaico, an innovative project combining photovoltaic energy production with crop and livestock systems supported by smart irrigation technologies; BinBot, an autonomous robot designed to identify and collect litter during large public events; and Phair-Earth, a Ciências ULisboa spin-off that combines physics-based models and artificial intelligence to predict extreme weather events.
The second weekend featured AquaInSilico, one of Tec Labs’ incubated startups, which develops software to improve the operational efficiency of wastewater treatment plants and similar facilities. Visitors also discovered SATO, a smart home energy management platform; CityPark, a project that integrates data from mobile devices and sensors to generate cognitive and motor function indicators, supporting both self-monitoring and clinical decision-making through user-friendly dashboards; and Box for Blind People, an inclusive gaming experience that recreates boxing through 3D audio technology and haptic feedback.
One of the highlights of the initiative was BinBot, which was also featured in the Falar Global programme by Correio da Manhã (from 5:50), demonstrating how autonomous robotics can support waste collection and contribute to cleaner and more sustainable large-scale events.
By participating in the Smart City of Rock, Ciências ULisboa reinforced the role of universities as drivers of innovation with real-world impact. The initiative provided an opportunity for visitors to engage directly with technologies addressing challenges in sustainability, climate resilience, urban mobility, accessibility, public services, and digital transformation, bringing research closer to society in one of Portugal’s largest cultural events.
