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Satellite-Enabled Air Quality Routing for Respiratory Health

Solution Overview

Belfast is part of a joint project funded by the UK Space Agency's Space for Smarter Government that uses satellite technology to help planners and residents better understand urban air pollution.[1] The Urban Healthy Living pilot adapts satellite-enabled air pollution monitoring to support public health programmes and healthcare delivery in an urban setting.[2] This approach prototyped a routing map that could allow clinical patients to better self-manage their respiratory conditions by selecting the routes and modes of transport that limit their exposure to pollutants.[2][3]

Technical Components

The implementation uses machine vision cameras and air quality sensors to gather traffic and air quality data in Belfast along the Westlink, Albert Bridge and Ormeau Road.[1] The project focuses on levels of nitrogen dioxide, PM2.5 and PM10.[1] Using a blend of technology, the initiative produced air pollution models that were visualised on 3D maps, making complex information accessible.[2] The system aims to help people choose routes that limit their exposure to air pollution, perhaps using a phone app.[1]

Implementation Details

The project is being delivered by a collaborative network of SMEs that includes Geospatial insight, Earthsense, 3DEO and Redshift.[1] Facilitated by Professor Alan Wells, the project also includes NI Government Departments, health officials and council staff, including Belfast's air quality officers and Smart Belfast consultants.[1] Working in both Belfast and the English town of Bicester, the team uses machine vision cameras and air quality sensors to gather traffic and air quality data.[1] Working with clinicians from the Belfast Health Trust, the team will study the relationship between local air quality and respiratory and circulatory diseases, and with Type II diabetes.[1]

Benefits and Impacts

The routing map prototype could allow clinical patients to better self-manage their respiratory conditions by selecting the routes and modes of transport that limit their exposure to pollutants.[2][3] The air pollution models visualised on 3D maps make complex information accessible to users.[2] The approach aims to help people choose routes that limit their exposure to air pollution through a phone app.[1]

Climate Adaptation Relevance

This solution addresses climate-related health impacts by helping residents and clinical patients reduce their exposure to air pollutants that are exacerbated by urban heat and changing weather patterns. The technology enables vulnerable populations with respiratory and circulatory conditions to adapt their daily movement patterns based on real-time air quality data.[1][2]

[1]: belfastcity.gov.uk [2]: sa.catapult.org.uk [3]: ulster.ac.uk

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