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
- researcher — A person who studies or investigates something.Researchers
- pollution — Substances that make air, water, or land dirty.pollution.
- monitor — To watch or check something regularly.monitoring
- quality — The standard or level of something.
- community — A 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?
