In our study, we introduce an advanced clustering method designed for IoT-based environmental monitoring. We’ve combined two powerful techniques, Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) and Genetic Algorithms (GA), to create a specialized approach called EC-GAD (Enhanced-Clustering using Genetic Algorithms and DBSCAN). This integrated system model relies on DBSCAN, a robust clustering algorithm capable of handling irregular shapes and varying data densities, to group sensor nodes based on their physical proximity. To improve clustering performance, we’ve harnessed Genetic Algorithms to optimize the parameters of DBSCAN. Through a repetitive process involving selection, crossover, and mutation, GA refines parameter settings based on the quality of environmental clustering as assessed by fitness metrics. Our approach is tailored specifically for IoT deployments in environmental monitoring, which involve collecting data from sensor nodes and integrating DBSCAN and GA. We’ve paid special attention to choosing an appropriate distance metric and fine-tuning DBSCAN parameters such as epsilon (ε) and minPts to match the unique needs of environmental monitoring applications. Furthermore, we’ve taken energy efficiency into account by implementing energy-aware node selection and optimizing cluster formation to minimize energy consumption. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.