Air Quality at Your Fingertips: PurpleAir
Julie Holt
2/8/20242 min read
Have you noticed something new when using the Google app for the weather?
Google has integrated PurpleAir data into its platform, providing users with real-time information on air quality. This integration is a great step in air quality awareness, particularly concerning PM2.5 levels and their impact on health.
PM2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. The average human hair is about 70 micrometers in diameter, making it 30 times larger than PM2.5. Sources of PM2.5 include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, wildfires, and agricultural activities.
Exposure to elevated PM2.5 levels has been linked to a range of health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to an increased risk of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), outdoor air pollution, including PM2.5, is estimated to cause about 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide annually. There is also research demonstrating increased risk for infectious agents such as COVID-19 and Tuberculosis when there is exposure to higher concentrations of PM2.5.
While improvements have been made in vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants in North America continued wildfires that have been occurring in the US and Canada have brought air quality concerns to cities and residential areas that historically haven’t been impacted. These fine particles are the main cause of reduced visibility or haze after wildfire events, such as the haze that was seen in New York and Toronto on the east coast in June of 2023. In short, PM2.5 is impacting more individuals globally than it has before.
With PurpleAir data easily accessible through Google, anyone can monitor PM2.5 and air quality levels in their area on their smartphone or other smart device. Governments have monitoring stations for air quality, the addition of the multiple sensors from purple air gives additional data especially in areas that aren't close to government monitoring areas. Whether you're planning outdoor activities, commuting, or simply going about your daily routine, having access to real-time air quality information empowers you to take proactive measures to reduce exposure to PM2.5.
By staying informed about air quality conditions, communities and especially vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions can implement strategies to reduce their exposure, such as staying indoors during periods of poor air quality, using air purifiers, and wearing masks when necessary.
As public health consultants, we applaud initiatives that leverage technology to promote health and well-being. The availability of PurpleAir data on Google not only raises awareness about the importance of air quality but also fosters a culture of environmental stewardship. There are over 22,000 PurpleAir air quality monitors in use globally right now, and getting your own sensor allows you to participate in being a community scientist, gathering data on air quality around you. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US uses purple air data as well to complement their own data collection so you can be assured it is trustworthy data.
The integration of PurpleAir data on Google represents a significant advancement in public health awareness using technology we use everyday. By understanding the impact of PM2.5 on health and having access to real-time air quality information, individuals and communities can be empowered to make informed decisions to safeguard their well-being. We aren’t affiliated or sponsored by Purple Air we just think it’s a great resource!
References:
https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution
Contact
info@hghconsult.com
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