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Bridging Sustainability and Ubiquity in Next-Gen IoT

Objective

GAIA reimagines the Internet of Things (IoT) by leveraging breakthroughs in biodegradable electronics and ambient communication to deliver a transformative vision: a seamless, sustainable, and circular IoT ecosystem. It introduces a new class of transient, ultra-low-power microelectronic systems that combine sensing, computation, and communication in a single biodegradable architecture--free from batteries, active radios, or persistent microcontrollers. Using 6G Ambient IoT backscatter concepts, GAIA devices operate autonomously and interface natively with existing cellular infrastructure. Designed to degrade naturally after use, they offer a battery-less, zero-waste solution that unites infrastructure compatibility with environmental responsibility. This marks a key step toward an infrastructure-aligned IoT that avoids long-term ecological impact while maintaining advanced digital functionality. Over three years, GAIA follows a phased strategy--from component validation to system-level verification--culminating in a disruptive proof of concept. This demonstrator, focused on smart logistics and cold chain tracking, will showcase a fully transient IoT system with ultra-low cost, power consumption, and seamless cellular interoperability. GAIA enables transformative applications in human and industrial contexts requiring (near) real-time tracking, sensing, and identification, without compromising sustainability. The project adopts a vertically integrated approach--from biodegradable materials to system design and telecom infrastructure--paving the way for digital objects at near-zero cost and minimal environmental impact. GAIA aligns with the EU’s strategic goals, advancing high-impact innovation, strengthening sovereignty in critical technologies, and pioneering a new class of IoT. Its expert consortium builds on a strong record of collaborative research to shape Europe’s sustainable digital future.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Keywords

Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)

Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

HORIZON-EIC - HORIZON EIC Grants

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) HORIZON-EIC-2025-PATHFINDEROPEN

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Coordinator

FUNDACIO PER A LA UNIVERSITAT OBERTA DE CATALUNYA
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 692 846,25
Address
RAMBLA POBLENOU 154
08018 BARCELONA
Spain

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Region
Este Cataluña Barcelona
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 692 846,25

Participants (5)

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