An artificial intelligence-powered robot designed to monitor biodiversity has been tested for the first time in Italy at Milano Malpensa Airport as part of a European project aimed at making airports more environmentally sustainable.

The autonomous robot, developed within the OLGA – hOListic & Green Airports project and previously tested at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, was trialled in green areas within the airport grounds and in the nearby Ticino Park.

Equipped with sensors, digital imaging systems and artificial intelligence algorithms, the robot can identify plant species, map vegetation distribution and collect real-time data on the condition of habitats. The technology is designed to support biodiversity monitoring and detect the presence of invasive plant species.

The test was carried out with the participation of SEA Milan Airports, Paris Aéroport and a team of researchers from Université Paris XII Val de Marne, in collaboration with the Ticino Park Authority.

The initiative is intended to evaluate how robotics and automated data collection can improve the management and protection of natural areas surrounding airport infrastructure.
Malpensa is located next to a protected natural area that includes heathland habitats, considered among the most valuable and fragile ecosystems in the region.

The OLGA project, funded by the European Horizon 2020 programme, brings together airports, research centres and industry partners to develop innovative solutions in energy, mobility and environmental management.