The installation of air quality sensors at 3000 locations across the country, has greatly assisted in the timely detection of dangerous pollutants in the air. Therefore, air pollutants can be easily detected in real-time. Read on to know how sensors are solving air pollution in Kenya.
Timely Alerts
Every 2 minutes, the sensors give detailed and accurate measurements of any airborne pollutants in the neighborhood. This data is used to fight air pollution. This is because more than 20,000 Kenyans die of air pollution each year. Unfortunately, the air in Nairobi is averaging about 45% to 65 % above the minimum safe level recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Prolonged exposure to such levels could eventually lead to health complications. They include; heart disease, acute respiratory infections in children, chronic pulmonary disease, and reduction in the life span.
WHO reports show that air pollution is a leading cause of death in Kenya. It is the fifth-largest cause of disability and death after alcohol. Consequently, actual deaths could be higher, as pollution increases the risk of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, stroke, and cancer. How sensors will solve this problem is the key to a clean environment.
Timely government intervention
Citizens can petition the authorities in real-time to ensure that promised solutions are implemented. The sensors, according to WHO reports, detected that the level of fine particulate matter in Nairobi is 70% above the recommended levels.
The new IoT network installed by Liquid Telecom has helped to develop a detailed map of the most affected areas. It is giving a clearer picture of exactly how bad the situation is. As a result, the authorities now better understand how they can tackle the problems. Furthermore, they already have reliable and accurate data.
With the localized evidence, authorities have, in turn, made laws that can enact tougher control on pollutants. The new IoT network will also help sensors in Africa develop a detailed map of the problem. As a result, everyone understands the nature and scale of the problem. Besides that, the network will create partnerships with local radio stations and grassroots watchdog. They will guide on how sensors will mitigate air pollution.
Access to information
According to Joel Muigai of Liquid Telecom Kenya and head of IoT strategy, researchers, citizens, journalists, and regulators will have access to real-time data access from sensors. The citizens will be able to understand the data through a public dashboard and easy alert options. For their specific neighborhoods, researchers and regulators will have access to free raw data on their website. The air quality data helps in a practical way to tackle health emergencies and provide evidence to journalists and regulators that address public concerns.
