Creating Space for Citizen Science

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

Mecklenburg County Air Quality is helping citizen scientists understand personal air sensors and use them in a way that takes advantage of the high-quality regulatory data that our agency is collecting. Recently there has been a surge of small portable personal air sensors in the marketplace designed to put air pollution science in the hands of the average citizen. Great idea! Only many of the sensors are not accurate and we have limited scientific evidence about how to interpret this roving, short term air quality data. MCAQ has embraced a balanced approach to the emerging personal sensor technology through research, communication and creating a physical space alongside our regulatory air monitoring station for citizen scientists explore this new technology. The outcome of this project has been partnerships with students, researchers, advocacy groups and interested citizens; a model for balancing emerging technology with regulatory obligations; and clear communication about the benefits and limitations of citizen science.