Mapping air quality, uses and experiences at Kungsparken

In Gothenburg, we have located 12 sensors in Kungsparken to explore, at the same time, the air quality, the use and the experience of visitors in the area. Is there a connection between the quality of air and a good or bad experience in an outdoor area? Can the air we breathe play a role in improving our outdoor activities? How can the use of city parks be enhanced by taking care of the air quality? How can the city officials work to reduce the air pollution exposure of the visitors in the parks? 

The collection of data from the citizens’ experience with a more detailed air quality mapping can play a significant role in the planning of parks. Together with the municipality of Gothenburg, we have started a series of initiatives that will provide us with information to nurture discussions and co-creation of solutions for urban planning with citizens, city officials, and scientists.

On one hand, since April, we have measured NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide) with passive samplers place at 12 sites in Kungsparken. Every month we change the samplers, so this week we collected the samples for June and put out new samples for July. 

This month we also added active sensors for the measurement of particles and measurements of O3 (Ozone).  In autumn, the mapping activities will be extended, as citizens will be able to borrow a sensor and become active participants in the air quality monitoring.  

On the other hand, we have recently launched a survey open to everyone in Gothenburg that uses and wants to contribute to improving Kungsparken. The questionnaire focuses on the experiences occurring at the park and is aimed to provide additional sensorial information to the air quality data collected by the sensors so together they provide a solid base for further urban planning. 

We will keep you posted on the findings. Anyhow, if you wish to collaborate in the monitoring and/or ulterior dialogue, you can register your submission at this link or send an email to jenny.linden@ivl.se