Sensors in Chisinau measure air quality and provide real-time pollution levels to citizens
The Civic Network "Aer Live Moldova" monitors air quality in Chisinau daily using sensors it has installed. These devices measure atmospheric pollutant levels and humidity, and transmit data online so citizens can track them almost in real time.
Sensors are positioned across various sectors of the capital, and the collected data is integrated into the Aer Live Moldova web platform.
“Monitoring is conducted online; all sensors are connected to a platform accessible via the internet. Any citizen of Moldova, from anywhere, can visit the website to view the current air quality parameters,” stated Silviu Racila, the secretary of the Aer Live Moldova Civic Network, during the “Zi de Zi” show on Radio Moldova.
Currently, the organisation has ten sensors installed in Chisinau, along with an additional six privately owned sensors that can be viewed on global networks, though they are not yet connected to the Aer Live Moldova platform.
Sensors are also deployed in Rezina, and the organization plans to expand the network to Balti, where the installation process is facing some challenges.
During the summer, air quality was generally good; however, some days and times saw sudden increases in pollutant concentrations, known as “spikes.” These spikes can be attributed to factors such as traffic jams, heavy vehicle use, construction work, or atmospheric dust.
“On average, we have good air quality. In general, the parameters were acceptable during the summer,” said Silviu Răcilă.
As the weather cools, pollutant levels tend to rise, primarily due to road traffic, industrial activities, and home heating methods.
According to Racila, pollutant concentrations increase by about 20% during this time of year. However, these levels generally remain below the maximum permissible limits.
Another significant risk is the burning of waste, especially plastics, laminated materials, and other compounds that release toxic substances into the atmosphere.
At the beginning of the year, Aer Live Moldova launched a campaign encouraging citizens and businesses to purchase and install air quality sensors. Reactions have varied, with some expressing concerns about the devices' high cost and potential additional taxes entrepreneurs may face for contributing to pollution.
Expanding the sensor network would provide much more precise data on pollution levels and sources, Racila said.
Monitoring air quality is particularly important, especially given a recent report indicating that by 2025, only Andorra, Estonia, and Iceland are projected to meet the World Health Organisation's recommended air quality standards for pollutant concentrations.
