WHAT IS AN ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR?

An environmental sensor is a device used to measure things like temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed, and light intensity. It can also measure other parameters such as air quality, water quality, and soil moisture.

The sensors in this project measure air quality, heat, noise, and relative humidity.

NO PERSONAL INFORMATION IS COLLECTED.

HOW DOES THIS BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY?

The environmental sensors provide community members with real-time data about conditions in their neighborhoods. This data can help inform decisions about safety, health, and other environmental justice issues. The sensors provide data that empower communities to take action to improve their environment.

AIR QUALITY SENSORS

There are 24 air quality sensors that are installed across the community. The sensors provide measurements of PM 1, PM 2.5, PM 10, temperature, and relative humidity.

Particulate matter, or PM, means tiny bits of solid or liquid stuff floating in the air. These bits are so small that we can’t see most of them, but we breathe them in every day. Scientists measure them by their size: PM1, PM2.5 and PM10. For example, PM10 means particles that are smaller than 10 micrometers (μm).

Researchers have found PM2.5 to have serious effect on human health. It can travel deeper into our lungs and even get into our blood. Breathing too much of either kind of PM can cause coughing, breathing problems, and make diseases like asthma or heart problems worse. Learn more.

HEAT AND NOISE SENSORS

There are 51 heat and noise sensors that are installed across the community. The sensors provide measurements of noise in decibels, temperature, and relative humidity.

Everyone is at risk of extreme heat. A single hot day can lead to health problems, but multiple hot days in a row bring the most risk. Heat affects people unequally. Individuals who are over 65 years old or children, pregnant, have chronic medical conditions or disabilities, work outdoors, experience homelessness, or use substances are more at risk.

FAQs

How where the locations selected?

A: The locations of the sensors were identified by the community members based on personal experiences with environmental hazards as well as reference sensors that will be used as a baseline or comparison to the places of interest. Seventy-five sensors are installed in the neighborhoods along Blue Hill Avenue from Dudley Town Common to Franklin Park. The data portal shows the locations of each sensor.

How is the Common SENSES Project ensuring community member security?

A: Common SENSES is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all community members. The sensors will NOT collect any identifiable data, photos, or cellular device ID.

What resources does the Common SENSES Project provide community members?

A: Common SENSES provides a variety of resources to help community members participate in environmental justice initiatives, such as educational materials, trainings on how to analyze data, and support with developing community-driven solutions. Please contact info@commonsensesproject.org for more information on the many resources that we are able to provide.