INTERVIEW
Air pollution is responsible for 48,000 premature deaths a year in France, according to Public Health France. And the situation is not improving. To tackle the problem, it is necessary to know its origins and precise extent. This is the goal of AtmoTrack, a measurement and monitoring system co-developed by Romain Scimia. "These are more localized sensors for more accurate information", he summarizes at the microphone of Europe 1.
Localized data
AtmoTrack measures the rate of fine particles, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide ... A whole set of data collected on a particular territory, which makes it possible to understand where are the peaks of pollution, where they come from and where scale of their potential impact. "We install these sensors on the roof of cars, on bus shelters or on building facades, which allows us to have very localized data," explains Romain Sciama.
Strengthen existing devices
AtmoTrack sensors reinforce devices such as Airparif (an organization approved by the Ministry of the Environment that monitors air quality in Île-de-France), by offering more accurate data. "For example, sensors can be installed in institutions that receive a sensitive audience, such as nurseries and hospitals, to enable them to adapt containment or ventilation to air quality."
Through his system, Romain Sciama wants to allow communities or businesses interested to adopt a more targeted action, and therefore more effective, to preserve the health of the French.