SchoolAIR: A Citizen Science IoT Framework Using Low-Cost Sensing for Indoor Air Quality Management

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly impacts student health and academic performance in schools.
• Natural ventilation via manual window opening is common but often insufficient in Mediterranean schools.
• Citizen science initiatives can effectively raise awareness and improve IAQ management in school communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the SchoolAIR framework for real-time IAQ monitoring in educational settings.
• To assess the effectiveness of low-cost sensors and IoT architecture for IAQ management.
• To promote citizen science engagement for healthier indoor environments.

Main Methods:

• Development of the SchoolAIR framework utilizing do-it-yourself sensors for continuous monitoring.
• Deployment of sensors to measure temperature, relative humidity, CO2, and particulate matter.
• Testing and proof-of-concept in university classrooms and a high school.

Main Results:

• CO2 concentrations frequently exceeded recommended levels during school hours.
• Elevated outdoor particulate matter levels were found to negatively impact indoor air quality.
• The SchoolAIR framework demonstrated the feasibility of real-time IAQ monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Real-time IAQ and outdoor air pollution monitoring are crucial for effective ventilation management in schools.
• The SchoolAIR citizen science approach enhances scientific literacy and promotes healthier indoor environments.
• Integrating technology and community participation can lead to more sustainable and resilient school ecosystems.