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Cellphones are used for many things nowadays, but now users
in California may be able to use their phones to track pollution levels. Entrepreneurs at the non-profit Nexleaf Analytics
have created a circular filter that darkens over time as it absorbs
black soot (also known as black carbon) from the air. Cellphone users of all
types – not just smartphones -- can snap a picture of the filter next to a
calibration chart that depicts the different levels of black soot pollution
levels.
Nexleaf encourages users to send their photos via email or text to an online
database. In turn, they respond back
with information about the pollution's concentration level. The focus on the black soot is due to its ability to cause respiratory
and lung problems over time. According to the World Health Organization,
long-term inhalation of the soot is responsible for an estimated 1.5 deaths
each year.
Nexleaf has already deployed the filters in India, as part
of the U.N.-supported effort called Project Surya. They hope to get the funding
they need in the U.S. so that Californians can start recording the soot levels
in their daily routines.
Do you think this type of black soot monitoring is
important?
Source: LiveScience
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Re: Track Pollution Levels with Your Phone
