How many monitoring units does a community network need?

A typical community network uses 4-10 units, depending on the area's size and the number of suspected pollution sources. Units are placed upwind and downwind of sources, at sensitive receptor locations (schools, care homes, residential boundaries), and at background reference points. Larger or more complex areas may benefit from additional units.

Can community monitoring data be used in planning objections or regulatory complaints?

Yes, though its weight depends on context. Indicative monitoring data from quality-assured sensor networks is increasingly accepted by local authorities as supporting evidence in planning decisions, Section 61 consent reviews, and environmental health investigations. For formal compliance assessment, reference-grade measurements may still be required, but sensor network data often triggers the investigation that leads to formal monitoring.

What pollutants can a community network measure?

Each monitoring unit can measure particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10), a configurable selection of gases (NO2, SO2, CO, CO2, VOCs, ammonia, and others), plus meteorological parameters including temperature, humidity, pressure, wind speed and direction. The specific sensor configuration can be tailored to the pollution sources of concern in each community.

How long does it take to set up a community monitoring network?

Individual units install in under 30 minutes each, including solar panel mounting and cellular connectivity configuration. A 6-unit network can be fully operational within a single day. Data appears on the cloud platform immediately, with dashboards, alerts, and reporting available from the first hour of operation.

Environmental Justice & Air Monitoring

Publicerat av Filip Sobecki den 9 December 2025 · 6 min läsning

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