Background

Atmospheric pollution is one the major threats to both health and climate change impacts. According to the World Health Organization, about 7 million deaths associated with air pollution are reported annually. The rapid urbanization and industrialization in Africa cities is driving the increased emission of harmful pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5). However, the African continent is still one of the less monitored regions in the world. The lack of sufficient data is one of the major challenges to understand and develop optimal strategies to reduce emissions.

The traditional reference monitoring equipment is very expensive. Many developing countries are not yet ready to invest in such an expensive solution. Recent developments in sensor technology using the internet of things, access to satellite data and big data analytics using state-of-art machine learning models, provide an alternative less expensive solution.

This workshop will bring together researchers working at the intersection of air pollution and public health and environmental authorities in Africa to exchange experience and learn best practices. Topics ranging from monitoring of indoor and outdoor pollution, modeling, health impact assessment and awareness strategies will be explored.

Objectives

This workshop aims to:

• Enhance the use of low-cost sensors in monitoring and management of air pollution,

• Explore existing air quality models and low-cost sensor calibration methods,

• Raise awareness on air pollution and explore optimal strategies for reducing air pollution emissions.

Expected Outcomes

This three-day workshop expects to increase collaboration between different stakeholders at the intersection of air pollution, climate change and public health. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with world’s leading experts and learn best practices from different parts of the world.