Marseille Spots Clogged Gutters with Filling-level Sensors

This week’s video explores a smart gutter project in Marseille, France, addressing the critical issue of clogged drains in coastal cities with Dominique Laplace and Benoit Kaeppelin from SUEZ/SERAMM and  Francois Hamon from Greencityzen. It highlights how clogged drains, a common urban challenge, can lead to severe problems like contaminated stormwater, flooding, and pollution, particularly when stormwater flows into the sea.

The video focuses on the local utility in Marseille, SERAMM, owned by Suez, which previously conducted around 50,000 gutter inspections annually to prevent waste accumulation. However, a significant transformation has occurred thanks to the innovative efforts of GreenCityZen, an eco-startup. Through their initiative, the number of required inspections has been halved.

GreenCityZen’s solution involves installing sensors connected to the Sigfox network, enabling SERAMM to remotely monitor the city’s gutters using the HummBox platform. This smart technology has led to more efficient and effective management of urban drainage systems. The project, which began in 2019, has already connected about 2,000 drains and aims to connect an additional 3,000 by the end of 2022.

The video also raises an important question regarding the future of this project in light of Sigfox’s bankruptcy. This development could have implications for the continued operation and expansion of the smart gutter system in Marseille.

Audiences interested in urban planning, smart city technology, and environmental management will find this video particularly enlightening. It provides a real-world example of how innovative IoT solutions can significantly improve urban infrastructure and environmental health. The case study of Marseille offers valuable insights for other coastal cities facing similar challenges with stormwater management and pollution control. The video is not only informative but also poses critical questions about the sustainability and resilience of smart city projects in the face of changing business landscapes, making it a must-watch for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of urban technology and environmental conservation.