NEW YORK — In a groundbreaking effort to combat air pollution, communities will soon be able to utilize satellite technology and artificial intelligence to monitor dangerous soot emissions in their neighborhoods, an initiative spearheaded by former Vice President Al Gore and his non-profit, Climate TRACE.
On Wednesday, Gore announced the expansion of the Climate TRACE system, originally designed to track methane emissions, to enable residents in 2,500 cities worldwide to pinpoint the sources and plumes of soot pollution. This upgrade leverages a network of 300 satellites and 30,000 ground-tracking sensors to identify 137,095 sources of particle pollution globally, with a focus on 3,937 that are classified as 'super emitters.'
According to scientific research, particle pollution is responsible for millions of deaths annually, with tens of thousands occurring in the United States alone. Gore emphasizes the importance of delivering timely data that could integrate into existing weather apps, putting air quality information directly in the hands of those affected.
Gore asserts that clear visibility into the sources of pollution can empower individuals: When it’s over in their homes and in their neighborhoods... then I think they’re empowered with the truth of their situation. My faith tradition has always taught me you will know the truth and the truth shall set you free. However, he notes that while soot pollution does not contribute directly to global warming, it arises from similar combustion processes that emit greenhouse gases.
Through its findings, Climate TRACE identified Karachi, Pakistan, as having the highest number of residents exposed to soot pollution, followed by other major cities such as Guangzhou, Seoul, New York City, and Dhaka.
With plans for daily updates to enable communities to track pollution in real time, Gore's initiative represents a crucial step in the fight for better air quality and public health, fostering informed and proactive community engagement against air pollution.
