Environmental crimes’ intelligence and investigation protocol based on multiple data sources

Project Information

EMERITUS

Grant agreement ID: 101073874

DOI

10.3030/101073874

Project closed

EC signature date 20 July 2022

Start date 1 September 2022

End date 31 August 2025

Funded under

• Civil Security for Society

Total cost

€ 5 525 062,50

EU contribution

€ 4 634 193,75

Coordinated by

GMV AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE SA
Spain

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - EMERITUS (Environmental crimes’ intelligence and investigation protocol based on multiple data sources)

Reporting period: 2024-03-01 to 2025-08-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The EMERITUS project aims to establish a new generation of technological tools to support Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and Border Guards (BGs) in combating environmental crimes, both nationally and across borders. It focuses on enhancing collaboration and operational efficiency through innovative investigation protocols and advanced technologies. The project integrates satellite imagery, IoT sensors, drones, and AI into a geo-intelligence platform that provides monitoring and investigative support via a unified interface. This platform helps authorities detect and respond to waste-related crimes more effectively.
A key component of EMERITUS is the co-creation of an investigation protocol tailored to environmental crime, developed in close collaboration with end-users. Complementing this is a comprehensive training program that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on simulations, enabling police and security practitioners to effectively use the platform and its technologies. Validation of the platform and protocols is carried out through realistic simulation exercises based on four diverse use cases, leveraging demonstration sites and partner facilities.
The project addresses the growing threat of environmental crimes in Europe, which are highly profitable due to low detection risks and penalties, yet they pose serious threats to ecosystems and public health. EMERITUS responds to this challenge by improving investigative capabilities and legal evidence collection.
EMERITUS contributes to EU security by modernizing information analysis, enhancing forensic capabilities, and supporting lawful evidence collection to better apprehend environmental criminals.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

Activities carried out during RP2:
WP2 – Investigation Protocol Co-Creation: Developed baseline and integrated investigation protocols for 5 countries. Created crime-specific protocols for waste dumping, trafficking, water pollution, and illegal storage. Produced video tutorials integrated into the EMERITUS platform. Addressed barriers to technology uptake and aligned protocols with platform capabilities.
WP3 – Platform Development & Integration: Delivered platform versions (beta, gamma, final) with full functionality. Implemented core components: user management, data governance, blockchain tracking, and visualization tools. Integrated virtual method containers and disaster recovery systems. Conducted end-to-end testing with real users (e.g. Malaga Police). Finalized data models and nomenclature mappings for EU/national standards. Monitored system performance using Prometheus & Grafana dashboards.
WP4 – Operational Training & Testing: Conducted semi-controlled and field testing in Spain, Italy, Romania, Moldova, and Greece. Validated satellite-based models and drone services. Delivered 40 hours of training to 32 participants. Implemented a successful Training of Trainers (ToT) cascade.
WP5 – Stakeholder Engagement & Decision Support: Built a Community of Practice (CoP) with 34 organizations from 13 countries. Held multiple showcase events (Athens, Turin) and collaborative meetings. Co-developed tools and protocols with stakeholders. Defined a roadmap for standardisation and scale-up.
WP6 – Dissemination, Communication & Exploitation: Maintained active communication via website, social media, and newsletters. Participated in 10+ high-level events and conferences. Published multiple scientific papers on Zenodo. Established collaborations with key EU projects (PERIVALLON, RITHMS, DATACROS 3, etc.). Defined KPIs, KERs, and preliminary business models.
WP7 – Project Management: Held 3 consortium meetings and 13 PMB meetings. Managed risks, budget reallocations, and internal agreements. Developed and monitored 56 datasets and software tools. Submitted technical and financial reports and ensured EU/RES compliance.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

EMERITUS successfully delivered a technological platform integrating various developments, leverages multiple data sources, and applies state-of-the-art analysis methods based on machine learning. Additionally, investigation protocols were developed in collaboration with stakeholders, reflecting their experiences and needs while considering the available technological tools. Finally, a set of training materials was created to support and enhance stakeholders' capabilities in areas such as technology, legal frameworks, and more.

Impacts:
Integration of SOA technologies to support environmental crimes investigation and monitoring while enabling national and cross-border cooperation among LEAs/BGs and security practitioners: EMERITUS platform successfully integrated both internal and external components, including user interfaces for remote drone control and 3D point cloud visualization. AI-based solutions were added for tasks such as water pollution monitoring, landfill waste classification, and waste site detection. Usability was enhanced with features like geo-search and zoom-to-feature by ID. Demonstrations revealed key outcomes such as improved security via double authentication, reduced analysis time using AI models, and the use of multi-platform and multi-sensor technologies. Technical advancements included Docker-based AI integration, real-time alerts, image comparison, and citizen reporting capabilities.

Enable actual use of such technologies by means of an ad hoc tailored training programme: Training activities in the EMERITUS project were designed based on user needs identified in RP1. Various training and testing sessions were successfully completed, providing participants with valuable knowledge and materials. As a result, many participants went on to replicate their experience as trainers within their own investigation units.

Time reduction for identification of new crimes: EMERITUS platform demonstrated strong capabilities in identifying potential waste disposal sites using ML/DL models, with average processing times of 10 minutes in development and 22 minutes in operational environments. The waste classification model delivered results in approximately 2 minutes. Remote drone control tests enabled real-time video streaming and post-mission image delivery, helping detect suspicious areas efficiently. Pre-designed flight plans contributed to reduced operational time during field missions.

Identification of higher number of crimes by more accurate evidence-based information: The EMERITUS platform integrates investigations protocols based on user needs and technical support.

EMERITUS Platform Home

EMERITUS ToT Program

EMERITUS Final Event

CoP Material

EMERITUS Final Publication Cover

EMERITUS 3D Visualizer

EMERITUS Second Showcase

EMERITUS Drone Control