University of Stirling researchers have launched an online air quality tool which gives people the opportunity to record their experiences.
The interactive map of Stirling and Clackmannanshire allows participants to pinpoint their location and record the perceived source which is affecting the quality of the air they breathe.
Users of the map can also read the air quality experiences posted by people in the places where they live and work.
The data, which can be provided anonymously, will be analysed by researchers at the University of Stirling and used to guide where air quality sensors should be placed.
Dr Heather Price, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Geography in the Faculty of Natural Sciences, said: “This innovative platform offers a unique opportunity for individuals to share their experiences of local air quality while also exploring the views of others in the community.
“The dashboard encourages anyone who lives, works, or spends time in Stirlingshire and Clackmannanshire to share their own stories about the region’s air quality and explore those of others.”
The air quality dashboard has been created as part of the wider Forth Environmental Resilience Array (Forth-ERA) project, a digital observatory of the Firth of Forth catchment area.
The first of its kind living laboratory will provide environmental data to facilitate world-leading scientific research, promote more efficient environmental management and regulation, and stimulate business innovation in support of Scotland’s transition to a net zero carbon society.
Dr Amy McCarron, Forth-ERA Scientific Outreach and Impact Officer, said: “By sharing personal experiences and insights, individuals will be contributing to important research and decision-making.
“These stories will help guide the placement of air quality sensors across the region, ensuring that the data collected is both relevant and impactful for the community.”
Forth-ERA is a key initiative pioneered by Scotland’s International Environment Centre (SIEC) at the University of Stirling. SIEC is supported by funding from the UK and Scottish Governments through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.