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AI and low-cost sensors map air pollution in South Africa (Level A2) — aerial view of city near body of water during daytime

AI and low-cost sensors map air pollution in South AfricaCEFR A2

9 Sept 2025

Level A2 – High beginner / Elementary
3 min
162 words

Researchers adapted methods from experimental particle physics to follow air pollution in real time. The system, AI_r, uses a network of low-cost Internet of Things sensors and artificial intelligence to measure air in pollution hotspots. The developers say this can avoid expensive monitoring stations.

Air pollution is a major health risk. The World Health Organization estimates almost 7 million deaths every year and says 89 per cent of these are in low- and middle-income countries. A World Bank study finds poor health from outdoor air pollution costs up to US$6 trillion every year.

A small pilot in Soweto started over a year ago and showed pollution spikes can travel across a city. Over the next year 500 sensors will be placed across Sedibeng, an area with around 1 million people. The project has support from South Africa, the UK, Canada, CERN and iThemba Labs, and it won a prize from the Pierre Fabre Foundation to be presented in October.

Difficult words

  • researcherA person who studies or investigates something.
    Researchers
  • pollutionSubstances that make air, water, or land dirty.
    pollution.
  • monitorTo watch or check something regularly.
    monitoring
  • qualityThe standard or level of something.
  • communityA group of people living in the same area.
    communities

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Why is air quality important for communities?
  • How can technology help reduce pollution?
  • What are the challenges of monitoring air quality?

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