24 PurpleAir sensors will soon be creating baseline air quality data for the area north of Bundaberg that’s currently threatened by a proposed coal mine.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has thrown his support behind the project that will provide valuable information for the community.
The PurpleAir monitoring network is a worldwide organisation that aims to provide real-time data on air quality and pollutants.
The Gladstone Conservation Council was successful in a recent Gambling Community Benefit Fund grant of $10,000 to purchase the 24 sensors.
Mr Bennett said it’s great to see the GCBF grants go to such worthy groups.
“This data will help us understand the impacts of not only human influences, but natural disasters as well,” he said.
“The PurpleAir sensors measure airborne particulate matter such as dust, smoke, and other organic and inorganic particles.
“The interactive map allows us to monitor situations across the globe as well as influences in our backyard.”
Project Coordinator Anna Hitchcock said she was very excited to take delivery of the sensors.
“We will be working with the local community to get them deployed and provide air quality information to everyone,” she said.
“One of the key things about these monitors is that the data is accessible to anyone, and this assists worldwide efforts to combat pollution.
“Baseline data is vital because it shows what the air quality is like before development and gives the community a way to hold companies to account.
“Right now, the area north of Bundaberg is a clean and green food bowl, such areas are extremely precious to our ongoing food security.”
For more information, visit https://www2.purpleair.com/
ENDS.
26/08/2021