Cymraeg We are EXPO-ENGAGE, a research project from the University of Exeter and Cardiff University that aims to find ways for people in Caerphilly County, South Wales, and Camborne and Redruth in Cornwall to monitor air quality in their local area.
Why air quality monitoring?
Fossil fuels for transport, industry, and home energy are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Net zero emissions targets in the UK will require changes to how we live, so the support of communities will be essential to meeting these objectives. Air pollution monitoring – the use of sensors to determine air quality levels – provides a way for communities to engage with air pollution, empowering people with data to identify and address the causes of this environmental health issue.
However, people living in rural areas and towns tend to be less likely to participate in air quality monitoring than those living in cities. More needs to be done to support these communities in monitoring local air quality, helping them to act on air pollution.
What do we aim to achieve?
Through surveys we will identify the barriers people in Caerphilly, Camborne, and Redruth face to taking part in air quality monitoring. We will also work with different community groups and members of the public to develop a network of people interested in tackling air pollution in both areas.
The ultimate aim of this project is to co-produce a research plan for air quality monitoring in the two areas.
How can I get involved?
If you have questions about the EXPO-ENGAGE project please email: [email protected]
Our team
Dr Jo Garrett
Project Lead
Dr Jo Garrett is a Research Fellow at the European Centre for Environment and Human Health at the University of Exeter. Jo’s research focusses on the interactions between human health, well-being, and the environment.
Dr Siân de Bell
Researcher
Dr Siân de Bell is a Research Fellow working in the University of Exeter HSDR (Health Service and Delivery Research) Evidence Synthesis Centre. Sian works with a range of stakeholders, from organisations interested in environmental management, to groups within the NHS who want to improve the delivery of health services, to translate research for use by decision makers and practitioners.
Dr Rachel Hale
Researcher
Dr Rachel Hale is a Research Associate at Cardiff University’s School of Social Sciences. Rachel uses her background in Sociology and Science and Technology Studies to explore societal issues, particularly where technology is involved. She is also currently working on a study looking at the insertion of Artificial Intelligence technology into steel manufacturing.
George Kirkham
Researcher
George Kirkham is a Research Assistant supporting the EXPO-ENGAGE project. Prior to returning to academia George worked as a design researcher. In October 2023 he will begin a PhD at the University of Oxford researching the global governance of snakebite envenomation.