Google today introduced Air View+, an innovative, ecosystem-based solution designed to provide both government authorities and the general public with real-time, hyperlocal air quality data. Powered by Google AI and in collaboration with local climate tech firms, this initiative aims to address the growing challenge of air pollution in India.
Tackling Air Pollution Challenges
As India continues to experience rapid growth, air pollution has become a significant environmental issue. Google highlighted that air pollution not only diminishes the livability of cities but also places a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Health problems caused by poor air quality contribute to physical and financial stress for individuals and communities alike.
Until now, the ability to take targeted action against air pollution has been limited by insufficient and imprecise data at a hyperlocal level. Air View+ aims to fill this gap by providing accurate, real-time air quality insights to both government agencies and citizens.
How Air View+ Works
Air View+ adopts a collaborative approach, bringing together local sustainability startups, climate action groups, corporations, and citizens. Climate tech firms, such as Aurassure and Respirer Living Sciences, have installed air quality sensors in over 150 cities across India. These sensors measure key air quality parameters, including PM2.5, PM10, CO2, NO2, Ozone, and VOCs, as well as temperature and humidity.
The sensors are strategically placed in areas such as administrative buildings, commercial spaces, and utility poles. They collect data every minute, which is validated and calibrated with the support of local researchers from IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, and state pollution boards. This data is then analyzed using Google AI to generate actionable insights.
Key Features of Air View+
- Real-Time Air Quality Data: Air View+ offers hyperlocal air quality data, available to government agencies, urban planners, and citizens across India.
- AI-Powered Insights: The system uses Google AI to model and analyze data from various sources, including local air quality sensors, weather patterns, satellite imagery, and more.
- Valuable for Urban Planning: Local governments can use these insights to improve environmental monitoring and urban planning.
- Accessible to Citizens: Users can view real-time air quality information through Google Maps, helping them make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
Empowering Governments and Citizens
- Local Governments: Air View+ provides municipal corporations with detailed, hyperlocal air quality data. This data helps cities identify pollution hotspots and take necessary actions to improve air quality. Pilot projects in cities like Navi Mumbai, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Greater Chennai have already shown encouraging results.
- Citizens: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is now available on Google Maps, enabling users to access real-time air quality information at a granular level. The system uses data from sensors, government sources, and other inputs to generate a dynamic AQI tailored to India’s National Air Quality Index (NAQI) standards. This feature is especially beneficial for vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, allowing families to take preventive health measures like wearing N95 masks or avoiding outdoor exposure.
How to Access AQI on Google Maps
- Open Google Maps and select the Air Quality layer from the Layer button on the homescreen.
- Tap any location on the map to view air quality details.
- Click the Weather widget on the Explore tab for AQI information about your current location.
Availability
This new feature is now accessible to users across India, providing essential air quality information directly in Google Maps.
Speaking about the launch of Google Air View+, Yael Maguire, VP & GM of Google Maps Platform & Google Earth, said,
Our ability to address the growing global climate crisis – and the pressing air quality challenges in many parts of India – depends directly on how well we understand it and the factors contributing to it. Google Air View+ represents a significant step forward in our capacity to meet this challenge.