Technologies
Technologies
Technology as a force for social impact
Advanced technologies like AI, big data, machine learning and immersive tools are no longer just the domain of tech companies. They are already reshaping how we care for people, communities, and the planet. From AI-powered diagnostics that extend healthcare to remote villages, to predictive data that helps cities respond to floods or wildfires faster, to drones that restore forests.
Technology is proving it can serve as a bridge between human creativity and real-world impact. It is not about disruption for its own sake, but about building solutions that improve lives, reduce inequalities, and protect our shared environment.
Technology as a
force for Social Impact
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AI for education and inclusion
Artificial intelligence is becoming an emerging sector in social innovation, with new solutions appearing almost daily. A local example is Astra AI, an innovative tool that personalizes learning and helps close educational gaps. By adapting to each student’s needs and creating more inclusive learning environments, Astra AI showcases how AI can be harnessed to support equal opportunities and inspire the next generation.
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Drones for environmental protection
Drone technologies are opening new possibilities for ecological initiatives worldwide. Equipped with AI vision systems, drones can monitor deforestation in real time, identify illegal logging, track wildlife populations, and even plant trees in areas previously stripped bare. A strong European example is the SPADE project, funded under Horizon Europe, which develops multi-purpose agricultural and forestry drones. From swarms that map under-canopy environments to autonomous planting drones that restore degraded forests, SPADE shows how technology can actively support biodiversity, sustainable land use, and the European Green Deal’s goals.
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Healing through immersive experiences
Extended Reality (XR) is transforming how we approach healthcare, particularly in areas where traditional therapies face limits. Virtual reality therapy is already being used to support patients with PTSD, phobias, and anxiety disorders, offering immersive simulations that help them manage and overcome challenges. A leading innovator in this field is XRHealth, whose platform connects clinicians with patients to deliver VR- and AR-based therapy for stress, anxiety, and rehabilitation.
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