Love My Air PM2.5 Sensor Network Analysis

TEHYA STOCKMAN, Aubrey Burgess, William Obermann, Brendan Lawlor, Shelly L. Miller, University of Colorado Boulder

     Abstract Number: 322
     Working Group: Urban Aerosols

Abstract
The Love My Air Network is a network of low-cost PM2.5 sensors (Plantower, Lunar Outpost and Clarity Inc.) placed outside of schools across Denver, Colorado. This network started in 2018 and has continued to expand as more schools have been added to the Love My Air program; there are approximately 40 sensors in the network as of early 2022. In addition, the network has collocated sensors at five federal equivalent method (FEM) air monitoring stations in Denver. Data from one collocated sensor has been used to calibrate the sensor network. Schools are invited by the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE) to participate in the Love My Air program based on a variety of factors including: asthma rate, free-and reduced lunch rate, and school readiness. Many of the schools with PM2.5 sensors are located in environmental justice communities. Among the schools in this network, some are located close to major roadways, while others are close to larger green spaces. This research analyzes the variation in PM2.5 across the sensor network in Denver from 2018 to 2022 and the relationship between PM2.5 measured outside of schools and the distance to major roadways.