Ambrosia (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) represents a major public health, economic, and agricultural problem in Europe. In the Republic of Croatia, it is particularly widespread in the areas of the city of Zagreb, Poreč, and Slavonia. Due to the large amounts of highly allergenic pollen it produces, it causes serious health problems, suppresses native flora, and reduces biodiversity. Its complete eradication is neither practical nor economically feasible; therefore, early detection is crucial to prevent its spread.
Client:
European Space Agency (ESA)
Year:
2023 - 2025

Solution

As part of the project, a system was developed for the automatic detection and prediction of ragweed growth locations, combining Earth observation (EO) data, machine learning, and field data.
How does it work in our case?
  • we analyze satellite images and train algorithms to recognize areas with a high probability of ragweed presence,
  • the model identifies characteristic patterns in vegetation and provides predictions of potential hotspots,
  • this enables faster response, more precise inspection planning, and a reduction in the spread of allergenic pollen,
  • the system continuously learns and improves its detection accuracy thanks to user input from the field.

Result

The project results include the development of a prototype system architecture, the establishment of a model that detects ragweed locations larger than 100 m² with over 90% accuracy, and the development of a web GIS application for public authorities and institutions. The project has also contributed to raising public awareness of the harmful effects of ragweed and promoted the use of space technology and EO data in environmental protection. The system enables reliable and efficient monitoring of ragweed, with significant reductions in the costs and time required for traditional field inspections.
The project was successfully completed in January 2025.