Global network for air quality monitoring launched on smartphones

The first global network for air quality monitoring has been launched using smartphone and cloud computing technologies, allowing users to map and track air pollution using their own mobile devices.

The ‘appcessories’ have been designed by Sensaris, a leading innovator in Internet solutions for smart cities, and will target fine particles and indoor air quality monitoring. The appcessories will be compatible with both iPhone and Android platforms, and will meet a growing interest in air monitoring around the world.

Citizens and communities are increasingly aware of the correlation between personal exposure to environmental pollution and health. In response to this, Sensaris ran pilot projects in 15 cities around the world, and is now ready to launch the first global network for air quality monitoring based on cloud technologies and smartphones.

Environmental data will be analysed using innovative solutions, with data such as noise, CO2, CO, fine particles, humidity, temperature, along with positioning information being sent wirelessly to iPhones (starting this summer) or Android mobile devices.

The users can then store the data on the phone, send it to a server for real time mapping or store it locally on the Senspod’s memory card for later or periodic automated transfer. This allows the citizen to monitor indoor and outdoor air quality, and compare or share results via social networking applications.

Michael Setton, CEO of Sensaris indicated: “In many cases there are more sensors in a car than air quality monitoring stations in a city. After getting a boost from the Bluetooth Innovation world Cup in January, we are very excited to deploy Senspods in several new cities this summer. Our devices and software will provide citizens and communities with new means of improving air quality, and the use of social networking tools will foster exchange of ideas and solutions on a global scale.”

Posted by Claire Manning