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Citizens Measuring Pollution
By acquiring an inexpensive pollution monitoring device, I can now keep track of air pollution outside my home instead of relying on “official sources”, which often just pass the buck, saying that pollution in Copenhagen comes from other countries. I feel empowered.
In my work in urban design I speak about the importance of data in cities and about citizen engagement. I encourage client cities and keynote audiences alike to gather as much data as possible and to enable citizens to have an influence on the development of their streets, neighbourhoods and cities.
I have finally had the opportunity to practice what I preach and equip myself with an Airbox pollution monitoring device to monitor levels of particulate matter from pollution, in particular, levels of dangerous particles less than 2.5 microns (µm) in diameter — known as PM 2.5. These particles are a greater threat to human health because they can travel deeper into the lungs.
The idea for DIY monitoring has been in my head for a few years.
Back in 2011, Copenhagen hosted the world cycling championships and to my surprise, they chose to close off the main boulevard through the city center — Hans Christian Andersen Boulevard — for over a week. Denmark’s busiest and most polluted street, with 60,000 cars a day.
