Am I the only one who remembers when, until recently, air quality monitoring stations were heavy cabinets positioned somewhat like this in cities and provided data very slowly? Today this is no longer the case, generally, but it can be done even better, and someone has thought about it.
For example, there is no easy way to monitor air quality for cyclists. That's why I find this interesting Air SODAQ. Air mounts on the handlebars of a bike and measures pollution levels as you pedal, recording them on an app. So users can be aware of the quality of the air they breathe at all times. Even (and above all) while cycling through suffocating cities.
In 2015, the Dutch technology company SODAQ built the first Air prototype. Two years later it was used in a data-rich project to map harmful emissions from cars and monitor pollution levels from other vehicles on nearby roads. A neat plan from Utrecht's public health department and environmental institute to assess air quality using nothing more than Wi-Fi-equipped bicycles. Starting with just 10 equipped cyclists, the project was so successful that it expanded their numbers to more than 500.
SODAQ Air revised and corrected: air quality everywhere
In 2019 SODAQ introduced new and improved Air technology. The latest model, smaller and easier to assemble/disassemble, is also more "intelligent". The use of sensors to measure air quality, fine dust concentration, temperature and humidity once every 10 seconds helps to always be in safe conditions. A good idea also for those who want to use the sensor at home, perhaps to understand if they need to wear a mask during renovation work.
However, as mentioned, Air does its best "on the move". The new system not only lets you know if there are changing environmental conditions in your area, but also provides information on how to organize your cycling route to increase well-being and reduce smog. You can check real-time updated data for PM2.5-sized particles across the city. Consider it a kind of “Google Maps” of air quality.
In summary: whether it is toxic agents, smog or smoke from fires (not so much in Europe as in the USA this gadget can be really useful, especially after seeing what the climate change even in summer), Air provides instant results and allows you to keep your personal health under control.
