On August 16, 2024, we reached an exciting milestone: Qados successfully delivered 712 QADOS Air sensors as part of a large-scale initiative to monitor air quality in schools across the Netherlands. These sensors, known as Air Quality Monitors, will be deployed through the GLOBE program, enabling students to actively participate in air quality research.
A Major Order for Air Quality Monitors
Thanks to a collaboration between GLOBE, more than 30 provinces and municipalities, and educational institutions, this large order was placed to equip schools with state-of-the-art air quality monitoring technology. The Air Quality Monitor is a compact and reliable device that attaches to bicycles, allowing students to measure fine particulate matter (PM) levels as they travel their daily routes.
Engaging Students in Air Quality Research
The Air Quality Monitor project is more than just technology—it is an educational tool that integrates seamlessly into multiple school subjects, from science to geography. GLOBE has developed teaching materials suitable for various educational levels, ranging from lower secondary VMBO to upper secondary VWO. This initiative provides hands-on experience in environmental science and data analysis, empowering students to take an active role in understanding their local air quality.
Support and Local Government Involvement
Participating schools receive dedicated support to implement the sensors effectively. Depending on the municipality or province, additional activities such as presentations and review sessions with local officials may be organized. These sessions provide students with an opportunity to showcase their findings to city council members and provincial representatives.
Mapping Air Quality: Visualizing Routes
A key component of the Air Quality Monitor project is the ability to visualize collected data. Students’ bicycle routes will be mapped, showing real-time pollution levels and enabling schools, policymakers, and researchers to analyze trends and identify high-risk areas for poor air quality.
Project Partners
This project has been developed in collaboration with key organizations, including:
- Schone Lucht Akkoord (Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management)
- RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment)
- KNMI (Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute)
