Environmental Protection Authority

The award will facilitate the installation of a long-term air quality monitoring network in Tema, Ghana. The Tema Air Quality Monitoring for Public Information and Decision Making Project seeks to measure outdoor air pollution (PM2.5 levels) with a hybrid network that includes a reference grade air quality monitor and 7 low-cost air quality monitors. The data generated will be made available to the general public, especially residents of Tema, in real-time for a minimum period of 18 months, which will provide a foundation for evidence-based interventions to manage air pollution.

“Air pollution has become a major environmental issue with public health consequences contributing to health challenges including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The level of pollution and efficiency of interventions can only be determined by measurement, making the project critical in establishing pollution levels in Tema. Deployment of air quality sensors for real-time communication of AQIs is significant in our efforts to protect public health and the environment. Communities and individuals would be empowered to take proactive measures for their well-being. Data generated would be available for awareness creation, revision of air quality standards and inform decision making to ultimately improve air quality in Tema.”

Selina Amoah, Environmental Protection Authority, Ghana