Madee
October 15, 2024
In this post, we’re going to take a look at a HabitatDAO project in Greenpoint, Brooklyn that focuses on air quality.
Collecting air quality data helps communities understand the environment around them. Air quality data also provides valuable insights for policymakers and public health officials so that they can address environmental and health concerns. Taking air quality readings in public outdoor spaces, such as community gardens or local parks, can help community members understand when it’s safe to spend time working or doing recreational activities outside.
The McCarren Park Demonstration Garden (Demo Garden) in Greenpoint, Brooklyn provides opportunities for residents to connect with nature, learn new skills, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient neighborhood. The 6,000-square-foot space features raised beds where residents can grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. From workshops to planting parties to harvest festivals, the garden is a popular venue for community gatherings and celebrations.
First sensor location at Demo Garden.
While collecting air quality data in Demo Garden, two different setups were required. The first set up involved locating the gateway in a nearby NYC Parks building and securing the sensor to the northwest corner of the garden. After being notified that the building was to serve as a migrant shelter, we relocated the gateway to a nearby middle school and moved the sensor to the southeast corner of the garden by the street. This was an example of how communities can come together to help each other out to make these types of grassroots efforts possible.
Second sensor location at Demo Garden.
The air quality readings we’ve seen so far show that average AQI in the area is around 20 AQI, which is considered good air quality. The highest average daily air quality readings we’ve seen range from 52-63 AQI, which is moderate. This means that the air quality is fine for most people, but those who are unusually sensitive should avoid prolonged outdoor exercise or other strenuous activities.
Air quality data in January 2024 from the Demo Garden air quality sensor compared the EPA data for NYC.
Air quality data in February 2024 from the Demo Garden air quality sensor compared the EPA data for NYC.
Air quality data in March 2024 from the Demo Garden air quality sensor compared the EPA data for NYC.
Air quality data in April 2024 from the Demo Garden air quality sensor compared the EPA data for NYC.
When comparing the sensor data to the EPA data for NYC, we observed that the overall AQI at the garden was lower compared to the EPA data for NYC. This trend was observed consistently over the course of several months.
How did this impact the volunteers? Volunteers engaged with the air quality data through the daily emails with the AQI reading for the day. We learned that volunteers with respiratory issues were concerned with air quality on very bad air days.
We are deeply grateful to our generous grant sponsor, The Solana Foundation, for their invaluable support, which is helping us bring this project to life and explore new approaches to environmental engagement that we hope will make a lasting impact.
© 2024 HabitatDAO