Air Pollution Apps: Your Guide To Checking Them

Air pollution is a serious issue, with a 2022 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) stating that 99% of the world's population breathes air that exceeds recommended pollution guidelines. Luckily, there are many apps that can help you monitor the air quality in your area. These apps use data from government-installed monitoring stations, third-party company monitors, and satellite imagery to provide real-time information about the air quality index (AQI) and individual statuses of all outdoor air pollutants. Some apps even offer health recommendations based on current air quality and allow you to save locations for quick reference. While AQI apps are a convenient way to check air quality, they may not be entirely precise, and for more accurate readings, an air quality monitor is recommended.

Air quality data sources

There are several air quality data sources available to the public. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a common standard used by many apps and websites to convey air quality. The AQI is based on measurements of several harmful air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO).

Air Quality Websites

The World Air Quality Index project provides a real-time air pollution map for more than 80 countries. The map uses the latest US EPA standard and the Instant Cast reporting formula to display air quality data. The website also provides historical air pollution data for specific cities.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides air quality data for the United States on its AirNow website and mobile app. The app displays the current AQI for your local area or any area you choose and allows you to store multiple locations for quick reference. It also includes the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map, which provides comprehensive information about wildfire smoke and air quality.

The World Health Organization (WHO) maintains the WHO Global Ambient Air Quality Database, which compiles data on ground measurements of annual mean concentrations of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in 4300 human settlements across 108 countries. The database is regularly updated and is used to derive the Sustainable Development Goal Indicator 11.6.2, Air quality in cities.

Air Quality Apps

There are numerous apps available that provide air quality data, often sourced from the websites mentioned above. The IQAir AirVisual app provides air quality data for all major pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, O3, and CO levels. The app also allows you to save locations for quick access and provides a user-friendly interface.

The AirNow mobile app, provided by the EPA, offers a simple interface for checking current and forecast air quality information. It includes the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map and is available for free download.

Air quality apps for Android

There are several apps available on Android that can help you monitor air quality and stay informed about the air you breathe. Here are some of the most notable ones:

IQAir AirVisual

This app provides trusted and reliable air quality information from over 500,000 locations worldwide, including government monitoring stations and the company's own validated sensors. It offers 48-hour forecasts, real-time global air quality maps, and historical data, making it a great choice for people with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. The app also provides health recommendations and information on wildfires and air quality events.

EPA's AirNow

The official app from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides current and forecast air quality information for your local area or any other location you choose. It displays the Air Quality Index (AQI) and includes an interactive map with data for PM 2.5, PM 10, and ozone monitors in North America. The app also features the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map, produced in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, which provides comprehensive information about wildfire smoke.

Paku

Paku is a comprehensive app that visualizes local air quality data by leveraging the networks of PurpleAir and AirNow (US EPA) monitors. It offers a free version and a Pro version with premium features such as real-time notifications, access to private sensor data, and customizable widgets. Paku helps you make informed decisions about your health and the environmental impact of air pollution.

Local Haze

Local Haze is a free app with a subscription option that provides air quality data from various sources, including Sensor.Community, PurpleAir, AirNow, the US Department of State, and uRADMonitor networks. It stands out for its transparency in data sourcing, allowing users to easily identify the origin of data points and assess their reliability. This app is ideal for those who want to ensure the accuracy of the information they're receiving.

Air Quality Index – Fresh Air

This Android-exclusive app is designed for simplicity. Upon opening, it displays the air quality, location, and date. It also includes a second tab where you can add multiple locations to monitor. While it doesn't offer much beyond this, it's a straightforward option for those who want basic, easy-to-understand information about air quality in their area.

Air quality apps for iOS

Air pollution is a pressing issue, and it is important to stay informed about the air quality in your area. Here are some air quality apps for iOS devices that can help you do just that:

AirNow

The official air quality app from the EPA, AirNow, provides the current Air Quality Index (AQI) rating for your location using an easy-to-read dial. It also offers a forecast for the next few days and allows you to check multiple regions. The app includes an interactive map that shows air quality data for PM 2.5, PM 10, and ozone monitors in North America and information about wildfire smoke.

IQAir AirVisual

IQAir AirVisual is a popular app that provides trusted and reliable air quality information for over 500,000 locations worldwide. It offers real-time air quality rankings for cities and shares helpful health recommendations. For example, when air quality deteriorates, the app may suggest wearing a mask, using an air purifier, and avoiding outdoor exercise.

Air Matters

Air Matters provides real-time air quality information for over 180 countries. It offers pollen data and forecasts for the United States and Europe, and you can switch between air quality standards of different countries. The app provides pollution and pollen alerts and is compatible with devices like the Laser Egg air monitor and the Philips Smart Air Purifier. It also has an iMessage extension that lets you share air quality information directly in conversations.

Plume Labs

Plume Labs offers an app that provides comprehensive maps with pollution hotspots and an hourly air quality forecast. The app is available for iOS and Android users and sends alerts when air quality levels worsen. It also offers tips for handling the current air quality, depending on your level of activity.

These apps can help you stay informed about the air quality in your area and take appropriate actions to protect your health.

Air quality websites

There are several websites that provide information on air quality and air pollution. Here are some of the most notable ones:

AirNow

AirNow is a comprehensive website that provides real-time air quality data and forecasts for the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It offers an interactive map where users can view the Air Quality Index (AQI) for specific locations. The map includes data for air quality monitors in each country, and users can select different tabs for current, forecast, loops, or archived data. AirNow also provides an Air Quality Flag Program, mobile app, email alerts, and other resources to help individuals stay informed about air quality issues.

World's Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index

This website offers a global perspective on air quality by providing a real-time Air Quality Index map. The map displays data on particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO) emissions. It covers various locations worldwide, and the Air Quality Index is based on the latest US EPA standard. The website also includes information on the worldwide EPA and their contributions to air quality monitoring.

PurpleAir

PurpleAir is a company that provides real-time air quality monitoring through its industry-leading sensors. These sensors measure particulate pollution (PM2.5), temperature, humidity, and pressure. PurpleAir offers an API that provides access to historical air quality data from its sensors, dating back to 2016. This enables developers to integrate the data into applications for monitoring and analyzing air quality trends. PurpleAir sensors have been installed in schools to educate students about air pollution and empower them to make healthier choices.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provides daily air quality forecasts specifically for Texas' metropolitan areas. The forecasts include information on wind speed, temperature, sunshine, and potential pollutants like ozone, PM2.5, and PM10. TCEQ recommends that individuals consider local conditions and determine their activity levels accordingly, regardless of the forecast.

Air quality monitors

There are many different types of air quality monitors available, from low-cost options to more expensive, high-performance models. Low-cost air pollution monitors are a great way to get started with monitoring air quality. They can provide users with a simple and quick way to determine levels of some air pollutants and may help identify when actions need to be taken to improve indoor air quality. These monitors may be referred to as air sensors, air quality sensors, air pollutant monitors, or low-cost air sensors. However, it is important to note that low-cost monitors may not detect all pollutants and do not give a complete representation of indoor air quality. For example, a monitor that only measures PM may not alert you to the presence of other harmful pollutants like radon or carbon monoxide.

For more advanced air quality monitoring, there are high-performance options available, such as the AirVisual Series Air Quality Monitors by IQAir. These monitors can be used indoors or outdoors and provide a wealth of information about the air quality in your local area. The accompanying AirVisual app visualises air quality data in an easily understandable way, showing values for all major pollutants, including fine particulate pollutant levels (PM2.5 and PM10), SO2, NO2, O3, and CO levels. The app also includes a store tab where you can purchase additional products, although the app itself is free and ad-free.

In addition to standalone air quality monitors, there are also many apps available that can provide information about air quality. The AirNow Mobile App by the EPA is one such example, providing a simple interface for quickly checking current and forecast air quality information. The app automatically displays the current AQI for your local area and allows you to store multiple areas for quick reference. It also includes an interactive Fire and Smoke Map, providing comprehensive information about wildfire smoke and air quality.

Frequently asked questions