The University at Buffalo (UB) received funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct the UB CLEAN AIR (UB Community Led Equitable Advancements in Neighborhood Air quality Investigation and Research) study in the City of Buffalo. The research team is currently recruiting participants – learn more below and at the FAQ page to see if you are interested!
Air quality is currently monitored at three EPA monitoring sites at the edges of the city – represented by red dots on the adjacent map. Given their location, these sites do not provide the most accurate air quality data for city residents. This study takes a community-based approach to data collection in areas with high rates of asthma (outlined in yellow) to provide residents with accurate real-time air quality information.
While the research team is open to accepting participants from other parts of the city, the East Side was chosen as the primary focus because of the high rates of asthma in the area. Asthma rates are especially high among African American children: the asthma hospitalization rate per 10,000 of Black youth is 46.9, compared to 10.2 for white youth. The localized air quality measurements that this study seeks to collect are therefore needed to definitively link childhood asthma with exposure to air pollution on the East Side.
Hosting an air monitor outside your home, business, or church provides you with an opportunity to better understand the air quality in your neighborhood. Accurate air quality information could help you plan outdoor activities safely if you or someone you know has asthma, COPD, or any other respiratory illness.
If you are interested in hosting an air quality sensor outside your home or business, or if you would like more information, please contact ubairqualitystudyinfo@gmail.com
