Climate change continues to pose a major challenge as climate scientists embark on generating usable data to help in informing mitigation measures.
According to the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) Africa Centre Director Dr. Philip Osano, the lack of adequate usable data remains “A key challenge to addressing air pollution in Africa.”
Speaking during the deployment of low-cost sensors to the Kenya Meteorological Department, which is a collaborative effort of Kenya Meteorological Department, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Dr. Osano said that the deployment of low-cost sensors (LCS) will complement the existing air quality data system, “and facilitate the provision of data for researchers, policymakers, local communities as well as other user groups for informed decisions and actions to mitigate air pollution in Kenya.”
The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) Director Dr. David Gikungu stated that the Department currently measures the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere at its Nairobi and Mt. Kenya upper air monitoring stations.
“The newly installed air quality sensors will enhance the meteorological observation network and increase the quantity of air quality data, which will be useful in climate change research and in monitoring air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,” said Dr. Gikungu.
The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Regional Science-Policy Coordinator Early Warning and Assessment Division Dr. Charles Sebukeera, officially launched the Air Quality Monitoring System, with Dr. Aderianah Mbandi from UNEP stating that the UN body’s mandate prioritizes regional collaboration to help address air pollution anchored in UNEA 6 Resolution. “Our partnership with KMD enhances our data analysis capabilities, ensuring data collected from the sensors aids in developing coherent and effective environmental policies,” said Mbandi.
The move to deploy the low-cost sensors was prompted by an initiative by the African Union Commission (AUC) report, the Integrated Assessment of Air Pollution and Climate Change for Sustainable Development in Africa, developed by African Climate scientists outlines 37 measures that member states of the African Union have undertake in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause air pollution and climate change.
The measures target key sector of the economy including; transport, energy use in residential areas, energy generation and industry, agriculture and food systems, and waste management.
The data collected from the sensors will be shared among KMD, SEI, and UNEP, and is aimed at supporting research on short-lived climate pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions in Kenya. The findings from the research will contribute to a better understanding of climate change induced by air pollution.
Scientific research is critical as it helps governments put in place effective measures to combat the rise in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. “Sustainable development can be maximized through controlled human activities and guided scientific research to mitigate or adapt to the changing climate.
