City4Climate seeks to bridge this gap by harnessing the potential of Digital Twins (DTs) — cutting-edge 3D virtual models that integrate real-time data, predictive analytics, and scenario simulations. These tools empower cities to monitor environmental parameters, assess risks, test climate policies, and refine strategies dynamically. By doing so, they enable smarter, faster, and more effective decision-making for climate action.

The project is implemented in the Portuguese Mission Cities of Porto, Lisbon, and Guimarães, in close alignment with the National Strategy for Smart Territories and the Cities Climate Contracts (CCC). It also involves capacity building for collaborating municipalities — Aveiro, Oeiras, and Famalicão — ensuring that knowledge and best practices extend beyond the pilot cities.

• Develop and implement a Digital Twin framework tailored for climate action governance.
• Integrate real-time data and predictive analytics to support decision-making and accelerate decarbonization.
• Simulate scenarios on key urban components such as emissions, air quality, mobility, energy, and the environment.
• Create a scalable and interoperable architecture aligned with EU standards for climate adaptation and mitigation.
• Engage stakeholders through workshops and collaborative processes to ensure practical applicability and long-term adoption.

Inspired by international benchmarks such as Zurich and Helsinki’s environmental monitoring systems, City4Climate will deliver a replicable Digital Twin model for Portugal and Europe. This framework will include:

• Real-time monitoring of GHG emissions, energy use, and mobility patterns.
• Predictive analytics to assess the impacts of policies before implementation.
• A robust data governance system ensuring security, standardization, and integration with the European Data Space.

By positioning Lisbon, Porto, and Guimarães as leaders in digital governance for climate action, City4Climate will accelerate the transition toward climate-neutral and resilient cities. The project’s scalable framework will provide a replicable model for other national and European cities, helping them achieve their climate neutrality goals while strengthening innovation, governance, and urban resilience.