Throughout my career, I’ve blended high-tech solutions with environmental science to address key challenges in our natural and urban spaces. My focus has been on innovating with AI and machine learning to enhance our understanding and management of these environments. In the Creating an Architecture for Manipulating Earth Observation data (CAMEO) project, I worked on developing new approaches to process earth observation data, simplifying the use of geospatial information. In the OPERANDUM project, supported by the EU’s Horizon 2020, I worked on promoting green solutions like green roofs to mitigate weather-related risks, emphasizing community involvement and smart environmental management. Tackling oceanic plastic pollution, the Plastic Raiders project created AI-driven detection systems for marine plastics. Currently, I’m running a Science Foundation Ireland project called INTERVAL, which aims to develop a digital urban tree inventory for Dublin, leveraging remote sensing and citizen science. These efforts underline my commitment to smart, sustainable urban planning and the empowerment of communities in environmental stewardship, driving towards a sustainable future. In addition to projects blending technology and environmental stewardship, I won the European Space Agency’s EODisrupt competition in 2022, a testament to my work across the EU. My engagement spans two Horizon 2020 projects, a government-funded initiative, and two projects supported by Science Foundation Ireland. My work has attracted national and international media attention, highlighting its significance. Further acclaim comes from one of my highly cited publications, which was inducted into UCD’s Hall of Fame in 2023. This array of projects and recognitions underlines my interest in leveraging cutting-edge technology for environmental improvement, fostering sustainable urban development, and engaging communities in meaningful conservation efforts.