Image Source: Social

Amid growing concerns about the health and environmental ramifications of air pollution, a recent report from the World Meteorological Organization highlights the potential of affordable sensor systems to assess air pollution levels, pinpoint sources, and bolster strategies aimed at improving air quality.

Low-cost sensor systems (LCS) are identified as pivotal tools for bridging gaps in both global and local air quality monitoring networks. They provide critical data to inform policies aimed at mitigating air pollution.

In recent years, these sensor systems have been increasingly deployed in low- and middle-income countries, where they fill gaps left by traditional, more expensive monitors. In high-income nations, LCS complement existing monitors by offering localized, near real-time data on air quality, such as monitoring emissions from fires, smoke, or vehicles in congested urban areas.

Sara Basart, a Scientific Officer at WMO and co-author of the report, emphasized the significance of air quality forecasting using low-cost sensors. These systems play a crucial role in enabling widespread monitoring and early warning systems, particularly in regions where conventional monitors are scarce. They empower communities with actionable information to protect human health and make informed decisions to manage air quality impacts.