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Artificial Intelligence-based Pollution Sensors

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March 17, 2025

Why in the news?

AI-powered air sensors offer a cost-effective, real-time, and practical way to monitor air pollution and protect public health.

Global Status of Air pollution

  • Globally, air pollution causes 7 million deaths per year.
  • Air pollution is the 2nd leading global risk factor for death, contributing to 8.1 million deaths annually.
  • Every day, 100 children under five die in East Asia and the Pacific due to air pollution.
  • 99% of the population breathing air exceeds World Health Organization (WHO) guideline limits, leading to
    • 8.1 million premature deaths annually, and shortening average life expectancy by 2.2 years.
  • Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are key pollutants of concern.
  • Children are highly vulnerable due to their developing lungs, weak immune systems, and faster breathing rates.
  • The burning of fossil fuels is the biggest cause of air pollution and also contributes to climate change.

New AI-Driven Roaming Sensors

  • Compact air sensors are the size of a thick mobile phone and cost a few thousand pounds.
  • These sensors can be attached to vehicles like buses, vans, and garbage trucks to collect real-time data.
  • They measure pollutants such as:
    • Particulate matter (soot)
    • Carbon monoxide
    • Ozone
    • Nitrogen dioxide
    • Sulphur dioxide
  • These sensors send data every minute to a central system.
  • Advantages - Affordable and practical alternative to expensive monitoring stations.
  • Provides real-time air quality maps in local areas.
  • Helps identify pollution sources and plan emergency measures.
  • Can guide individuals to safer areas (e.g., joggers choosing cleaner routes, parents finding safer playgrounds).
  • Ensures better air quality awareness and health protection for the public.

Right to breathe clean air is a fundamental right under Article 21.

Reference

Down to Earth | AI sensors

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