On 24 September, the EnCLOD project reached an important milestone with its Final Conference, “OPEN DATA – Toward a Better Governance of Mobility and the Territory.” The event brought together more than 70 participants from the research community, private sector, public authorities and organisations working on mobility, territorial development and innovation.
As a partner of the EnCLOD project, ALDA+ has contributed throughout its implementation to strengthening the connection between Open Data, local governance and stakeholder engagement, supporting the exchange and transfer of knowledge generated within the project.
The Final Conference offered an opportunity to bring these different dimensions together, presenting the results achieved by the partnership and discussing how data can become a practical resource for public authorities and communities.
From Open Data to better decision-making
Throughout the conference, researchers, entrepreneurs, start-up founders and representatives of local authorities shared concrete experiences of collecting, analysing and using Open Data.
The discussions highlighted how making data accessible is only the first step. Its real value emerges when data can be transformed into knowledge that supports public authorities in understanding local challenges, making evidence-based decisions and improving services for citizens.
This approach is particularly relevant in areas such as mobility, territorial planning and climate change mitigation and adaptation, where local authorities increasingly need reliable information and effective tools to respond to complex challenges.
Among the experiences presented during the conference, particular attention was dedicated to the Olomouc Pilot Action, which explored how Open Data can support climate change adaptation, with a specific focus on the effects of urban heat islands.
The pilot provided a concrete example of how data-driven approaches can help local authorities better understand their territory, identify priorities and develop more targeted responses.
Taking EnCLOD beyond the project
For ALDA+, the conclusion of a European project is not simply about closing activities, but also about ensuring that the knowledge, methodologies and partnerships developed throughout its implementation can continue to generate value.
The Final Conference therefore represented an important opportunity to discuss the sustainability and transferability of EnCLOD’s results and how the experience developed by the partnership can continue to support public authorities and other stakeholders interested in using Open Data for better territorial governance.
For ALDA+, the experience of EnCLOD once again demonstrates the importance of connecting innovation with the needs and capacities of local actors. Data and digital tools can contribute to better governance when they are accompanied by cooperation, capacity building and meaningful engagement with the stakeholders who will ultimately use them.
As EnCLOD comes to an end, the knowledge, tools and relationships developed through the project provide a strong foundation for continuing this work and supporting more informed, sustainable and resilient local communities across Europe.