Noise pollution in urban landscapes challenges the wellbeing of populations. Research has drawn links between long-term exposure and variety of health effects, such as poor-quality sleep, damage to our cardiovascular and metabolic systems, and potentially even cognitive impairment in children, according to a report by the European Environment Agency (EEA). The EEA estimates that environmental noise contributes to 48,000 new cases of ischaemic heart disease a year as well as 12,000 premature deaths in Europe alone. They also estimate that 22 million people suffer chronic high annoyance from noise pollution.

From traffic congestion to construction activities, the sources are diverse in nature. However, the advent of smart city technologies, particularly Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, presents an innovative approach to monitor and address noise pollution. In this blog, we'll explore how smart cities are leveraging IoT technology to target and solve noise pollution, fostering quieter and more liveable urban environments.

IoT tech and addressing noise pollution

Smart cities are deploying advanced sensors and IoT devices to monitor noise levels in real-time across various locations. For example, bettair have deployed advanced sensors in Barcelona. These sensors can be strategically placed throughout the city to continuously collect data on ambient noise. The information collected is then processed, providing city officials with a better understanding of noise patterns for decision-making, and identifying hotspots that require attention.

The data collected through IoT-enabled noise monitoring is not just about identifying noise levels; the data collected is so we can derive meaningful insights. Data analytics tools can process the information to identify trends, peak hours of noise pollution, and specific sources contributing to elevated noise levels. This enables city planners and policymakers to make informed decisions on implementing targeted interventions.

IoT and public awareness

IoT technology can be harnessed to increase public awareness and engage the community in noise reduction using real-time noise data. Citizens can access information about noise levels in their neighbourhoods through mobile apps or public displays, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and encouraging behavioural changes.

Urban design

Noise-responsive urban design can also be facilitated by IoT technology. By analysing IoT-generated noise data, city planners can make informed decisions about urban design and zoning. This includes creating sound barriers, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly zones. Integrating noise considerations into urban planning fosters a more harmonious coexistence between the urban environment and its residents.

IoT Innovators

Smart cities are collaborating with IoT and technology innovators, such as bettair to enhance noise monitoring capabilities. In future this can include the development of advanced sensors, machine learning algorithms, and predictive analytics to anticipate and address potential noise pollution issues before they escalate.

Moving towards more liveable and sustainable urban spaces, monitoring noise in real-time, employing data analytics for informed decision-making, these cities are enhancing the overall quality of life for their residents.

In the future, the sounds of silence may become a defining feature of urban landscapes.

We discuss how Smart Cities could employ IoT technology to improve the air we breathe and the environment we live in.

What are Smart Cities?

A smart city is an urban environment where traditional networks and services are made more efficient with the use of digital solutions for the benefit of its inhabitants and business. Key components of a smart city may include the integration of information and communication technologies, data analytics, sensors, and other connected devices to optimise the delivery of public services such as transportation, energy, healthcare, and security.

Combating Air and Noise Pollution

Common aims of Smart Cities are to improve the quality of life of citizens and reach European energy and climate targets.

Air and noise pollution stand out as significant threats to public health. Air pollution has been strongly linked to lung cancer, heart attacks, and strokes, dementia, as well as even neurological conditions and elevated crime rates. Internet of Things (IoT) technology has a vital role to play in mitigating these environmental hazards and improving public health.

Smart Cities leverage data and technology to optimise urban planning. By integrating transportation systems, energy management, and waste disposal, cities can streamline operations and reduce their carbon footprint. This holistic approach helps minimise pollution sources and enhance overall air quality.

One of the major contributors to urban air pollution is vehicular emissions. Smart Cities often employ intelligent traffic management systems that optimise traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance fuel efficiency. This not only decreases air pollution but also eases noise levels in urban areas.

Real-time Air Quality Monitoring

IoT devices equipped with air quality sensors can be strategically placed throughout the city to provide real-time data on air quality. This information enables authorities to identify pollution hotspots and take immediate corrective actions.

By analysing historical data collected through IoT devices, city planners can develop predictive models for air quality. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions, such as implementing traffic restrictions or adjusting industrial operations to prevent potential pollution spikes.

IoT and Noise Pollution Management

Smart Cities can integrate noise monitoring sensors across public spaces to constantly measure and analyse noise levels. This data helps in identifying areas with high noise pollution and implementing targeted interventions.

Using IoT data, urban planners can design public spaces with noise reduction in mind. This includes incorporating green spaces, sound barriers, and optimising building layouts to minimise the impact of noise pollution on residents.

Reduced air pollution levels lead to a direct improvement in respiratory health. By leveraging IoT technology, we can create environments where citizens breathe cleaner air, reducing the prevalence of respiratory diseases. Lower noise levels also can contribute to a better quality of life for urban residents as they allow for improved sleep and reduced stress.

By adopting intelligent solutions for air and noise pollution management, cities can create healthier and more sustainable communities.

Predictive Analytics for Air Quality Management

Predictive analytics also plays a crucial role in the realm of Smart Cities, particularly in the context of air quality management. Here's a more detailed explanation of how predictive analytics can be employed to prevent and mitigate air pollution:

Predictive analytics begins by analysing historical data collected through IoT devices, such as air quality monitoring sensors deployed across the city. This data encompasses various parameters like pollutant levels, meteorological conditions, and human activities that contribute to pollution.

By leveraging advanced analytics tools, city planners can identify patterns and trends in the historical data. For example, they may observe that certain areas experience higher pollution levels during specific times of the day, seasons, or in response to particular events, such as heavy traffic or industrial activities. Predictive analytics involves correlating air quality data with other relevant factors, such as traffic patterns, industrial operations, and meteorological conditions. This correlation helps identify potential causative factors for spikes in pollution levels.

Development of Predictive Models and Early Warning Systems

Based on the insights gained from historical data analysis and correlation studies, predictive models are developed. These models use algorithms to forecast future air quality conditions based on anticipated changes in contributing factors. For instance, the model may predict increased pollution levels during rush hours or under specific weather conditions.

Once predictive models are established, cities can implement early warning systems. These systems can issue alerts to relevant authorities and the public when conditions are forecasted to lead to a deterioration in air quality. This proactive approach enables timely interventions to prevent or minimise the impact of pollution events.

Adapting Industrial Regulations

Predictive analytics can help authorities anticipate periods of high pollution risk and implement adaptive regulations. This might involve adjusting industrial operations, temporarily restricting certain activities, or enhancing emission control measures during forecasted pollution peaks.

By incorporating predictive analytics into air quality management strategies, Smart Cities can move beyond reactive responses and proactively address environmental challenges. This not only improves the effectiveness of pollution control measures but also contributes to a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.

How we can make Smart Cities a reality & The bettair® Node

bettair® Nodes are novel devices that permit, for the first time, the mapping of air pollution with high accuracy and in high resolution at a previously unimaginable scale. The bettair® network provides invaluable insights about how to mitigate air pollution. This is as they measure up to 12 air quality indicators as well as ambient noise level and other environmental parameters.

These multi-sensor devices operate autonomously, and each sensor transmits its data directly to a server for processing in the cloud. bettair® Nodes can measure various air pollutants, as well as ambient noise level and other environmental parameters.

Nodes are composed of the latest generation of gas sensors to measure (ppb or µg/m3): NO, NO2, CO, O3, SO2,H2S, NH3, Particulate Matter (µg/m3) including PM1, PM2.5 and PM10, CO2 (ppm or µg/m3), VOCs, Noise, temperature, humidity, and pressure.

One of the keys to the reliability and zero maintenance cost of bettair® Nodes is centralised processing. Contamination data are treated through a unique post-processing algorithm. This algorithm provides accurate measurements of several air quality indicators with accuracy similar to that of traditional equipment, but at a fraction of the price.

The static node is a huge step forward for connectivity, autonomy, and integration, and it boasts advanced post-processing, and an impressive Pearson correlation (R2> 0.9) when compared to traditional air quality monitoring equipment. Enviro Technology recently became the sole distributor of the bettair® Node for UK and Ireland.

ET and dnota join forces to bring the most accurate multi-parameter indicative sensor in the world to the UK and Ireland.

Read the full press release here.

ET’s air quality monitoring laboratory - The Smogmobile (et.co.uk was out at last weeks (8^th June 2023) Clean Air Carnival in Lambeth, London doing what it does best, showing off its fantastic array of sophisticated air quality monitoring technology for children and adults alike to see it working in practice, producing real-time data on the quality of the air we breathe.

The Mums for Lungs organised event was well received with a large number of local children taking to the streets to learn about the importance of clean air for our minds, bodies and the environment.

ET MD, Duncan Mounsor, attended the event as a STEM ambassador along with some academics from some of the most prestigious scientific organisations in the UK. The event benefitted from the presence of Dr Ian Mudway, Senior Lecturer in the School of Public Health at Imperial College, London and Dr Rosamund Dove a postdoctoral Researcher at The Queen Mary University of London and member of Children’s Health in London and Luton (CHILL).

Duncan, who is passionate about educating the next generation on the dangers of air pollution, commented on the event “As a STEM ambassador I find these types of community outreach events are great opportunities to engage with primary school-aged children. At the carnival It was great to see such a large number of young people really interested in learning about air quality and how it is measured by instruments such as those utilised in our fully electric, Smogmobile.

As a company, we really value opportunities such as this to talk to the public, in particular the younger members, about the wide-reaching effects of pollution. It helps towards influencing a more considered mindset when it comes to making everyday choices about how our actions can affect environmental issues such as air pollution. “

ET’s Smogmobile will take a short rest now until Clean Air Day on June 15^th when it will be zooming down the M4 to Newport to monitor and raise awareness in South Wales.

You can find out more about the Smogmobile here.

Over the course of the past year Somerset Wildlife Trust along with partners at Avon Wildlife Trust, RSPB and Natural England have investigated the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Somerset’s lowland peatlands. 

Lewis John, ET’s Sales Manager for Scientific Applications, met with Somerset Wildlife Trusts Peatland Partnership Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Officer, Beth Pudifoot at Honeygar Farm recently to see first-hand how the ABB LGR-ICOS GLA-1313-GGA Microportable Greenhouse Gas Analyser, supplied by ET, was used for this project.

Image above: Lewis John and Beth Pudifoot at Honeygar Farm, Somerset.

Image left: Beth Pudifoot with the GLA131-Greenhouse Gas Analyser

Investigations showed how a broad baseline of GHG emissions from different peatland land use types in Somerset, might be affected by different land management actions such as cutting and grazing.

Beth Pudifoot comments “We found the GLA131-GGA very simple and user-friendly, particularly the associated real-time interface. The smaller size meant it was convenient to transport and carry across site. It consistently produced good quality, reliable data, which along with quick and detailed support and assistance from ET, meant the GLA131-GGA was ideal for use in our project”.

Image: Beth Pudifoot monitoring with the GLA-1313-GGA at Honeygar Farm


THE RESULTS

Samples were taken on 11 different sites, with a combination of land owned by nature conservation organisations and privately owned agricultural land being monitored. Overall, the project evidenced that between May and December 2022, the Somerset Levels and Moors were a constant source of carbon, with levels ranging from a monthly average of 0.24 – 1.75 g/m²/hr CO₂e.

The project focussed on engaging with local landowners and managers, without who’s buy-in and collaboration success wouldn’t have been assured.

The results highlighted the importance of protecting peatland ecosystems, especially in the face of climate change. The project also reinforced that there are potential emission reductions to be made, transforming this landscape from net emissions to net sequestration.

THE FUTURE

Somerset Wildlife Trust has ambitions to continue the monitoring of GHGs across the Somerset Levels and Moors into the future, building on the baselines recorded this year.

Keep a look out for the full Case Study which will be published soon!

For more information on the ABB LGR-ICOS GLA-1313-GGA Microportable Greenhouse Gas Analyser available from ET in the UK and Ireland, take a look at our webpage or contact us for more information on info@et.co.uk or call 01453 733200.

ET UK Sales Manager for Scientific Applications Lewis John, recently hand delivered an ABB-LGR GLA132-SOFX1 Ultraportable Soil Gas Analyser to Dr. Jen Roberts at the University of Strathclyde. Dr Roberts and her colleagues are looking to use it for research applications such as soil flux, contaminated land surveys, and even monitoring respiration rates of fungi, a new application for ET!

Lewis reports the half a days training he gave to the senior members of the Civil and Environmental Engineering department and 12 other academics, was very well received and they are all looking forward to doing some research with it soon.

Find out more about the ABB-LGR GLA132-SOFX1 Ultraportable Soil Gas Analyser here.

Herefordshire has two Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) due to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide, exceeding national standards (40μg/m3).

ET have supplied a new Air Quality Monitoring Station in Bargates, Leominster to help mitigate the problem.

The work included all project management, installation & commissioning, together with a 3-year fully inclusive service and data collection contract.

Picture left shows (left to right): Paul Norman (ET) and Herefordshire Council representatives: Councillor Ange Tyler (Housing, Regulatory Services and Community), Marc Willimont (Head of Public Protection) and Charles Yarnold (Environmental Health Service Manager) at the new air quality monitoring station in Bargates, Leominster.

The station will provide the council with real-time data of NO₂ levels, PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 which can help identify actions to improve air quality and provide additional data on other pollutants.

Cllr Ange Tyler, Cabinet member for Housing, Regulatory Services and Community, said “By allowing more accurate measuring of air pollution, the new monitoring station will help us to identify areas of concern, improve the success rate of grant submissions, and ensure there is robust data on which to base medium to long term decisions and assess the impacts of our various initiatives.”

This work follows ET's upgrade of an existing automatic monitoring station on Victoria Street in Hereford last year.

You can read the full press release here.

Cura Terrae is pleased to announce the acquisition of Enviro Technology Services Ltd. The deal was completed on 23^rd December 2022.

Enviro Technology joins Ecus, Environmental Monitoring Solutions and Envirocare under the Cura Terrae umbrella. As a leading global player in the air monitoring systems market, their services perfectly complement the range of environmental services offered by our ever-growing group.

Enviro Technology is based in Stroud, Gloucestershire and will work alongside our existing teams, offering real-time instrumentation and bespoke ‘turn-key’ environmental monitoring systems and support for the measurement of air pollution and greenhouse gases to a large range of clients in the UK and multiple geographies worldwide.

For almost 40 years, Enviro Technology has worked closely with government, local authorities, agencies, research and industrial clients to implement and support the instrumentation required to monitor compliance with legislative air pollution targets, as well as advancing localised strategies and solutions.

CEO of Cura Terrae, Professor Pete Skipworth, sees this entry into the air monitoring market as an important strategic step in Cura Terrae’s growth and an opportunity to continue building a leading and increasingly diverse, environmental group that offers complementary client services that make a real difference in taking care of The Earth. He comments, “It has never been more important to understand and manage the air pollution that is around us every day. This acquisition is a significant and exciting development for Cura Terrae, and we look forward to welcoming Enviro Technology’s staff and clients on board and continuing our mission. They will complement the services already offered by the group, and their expertise will strengthen our existing pool of knowledge, experience and resources, all of which allow us to offer excellent environmental services.”

Duncan Mounsor, Managing Director of Enviro Technology adds, “We’re thrilled to have found a place where our business and staff can thrive. Joining the Cura Terrae family means we can continue to provide our clients with cutting-edge monitoring technology and high-quality services within a multi-disciplinary environmental group that aligns with our mission to help our clients work towards a more sustainable future.”

Duncan adds ‘the expertise and experience our team bring to the group adds significant value, and we’re lucky to be joining teams whose disciplines perfectly complement what we offer our clients. Our global sales will continue to be led by Mike Webley, who is almost universally known in the air quality industry. We’ve been leading the air pollution monitoring sector for 40 years, and now it’s time to join forces with Cura Terrae and its subsidiary companies so that we can grow, learn, and lead.’

Cura Terrae is backed by investment from Palatine Private Equity’s Impact Fund, whose long-term commitment to place purpose and sustainability at the heart of their investment strategy aligns perfectly with Cura Terrae’s shared mission to protect the environment. This acquisition was also backed by Shawbrook Bank, and we were advised by David Mkhitarian and James Down at Hill Dickinson Manchester, as well as Alex Stewart and Nicola Merritt at Cortus Advisory. Enviro Technology shareholders were advised by Tim Ward at Harrison Clark Rickerbys Solicitors, Cheltenham.

Krag Petterson (Vice President of Marketing and Sales at SailBri Cooper, Inc. Cooper Inc) and Mike Webley (Director, ET) signed a new exclusive distributor agreement for the sale of SCI Cooper’s range of products at the recent NAAMC Pittsburgh Conference 2022 National Ambient Air Monitoring Conference | US EPA .

Adding the Republic of Ireland to the existing list of regions for ET, swells its market for the sale of the Sailbri Cooper Inc product range, which includes; Kazakhstan, the Middle East and the UK CEM market.

Xact® 625i Multi-Metals Monitoring System

Clean Air Day (CAD) is the UK’s largest air pollution campaign, bringing together communities, businesses, schools, and the health sector.

Back in September 2021, ET agreed the hire of the Smogmobile to Fife Council to assist with their campaign to highlight the dangers of air pollution and to try and increase active travel to and from Schools to run for the three days up to CAD 2022 (June 16^th).

The Councils objective was to raise awareness of air pollution levels peaking at drop-off and collection, and exposing children to harmful toxins and to encourage walking, cycling or scooting to school as a healthier alternative.

Over the three days, ET’s Managing Director, Duncan Mounsor, monitored air pollution at three primary schools around Dunfermline using ET’s custom-made mobile air quality monitoring laboratory - the Smogmobile.

 The Smogmobile at St Margaret's Primary School in Fife.

Duncan, who spoke to 15 groups of children during one of the days commented: “I actually get a huge amount of job satisfaction visiting schools to talk about the dangers of poor air quality. It’s a global problem. We must educate ourselves and our children to help ensure we continue to decrease pollution levels for future generations”

Blair Falconer, Fife Council’s Land and Air Quality Technician said “The project was key in raising awareness among local children. We hope we have inspired some changes, and that the children continue to build upon this knowledge”.

During the visits, the children were excited to see the mobile laboratory in action and had lots of questions. Teacher, Isla Ferguson remarked, “The pupils at Carnegie Primary have been buzzing about Clean Air and monitoring air pollution all week! I've had some lovely comments from a couple of parents saying that their children - who were involved in some of the many groups who came to listen to Duncan - found it really fascinating. Once again, thanks for the opportunity to be involved: our students have really benefitted.“

The Smogmobile really lends itself to this kind of research and education project.

The Smogmobile’s next outing is to Westminster on June 28^th where it will be monitoring at two Westminster locations to mark London Climate Action week. Smogmobile visits Westminster for London Climate Action Week | Westminster City Council

If you’d like more information about the Smogmobile, you can read about it in our brochure

2017-smogmobile-brochure.pdf (et.co.uk)