Benin Initiative for Clean Air Solutions: Clean Air One Atmosphere in Collaboration with Columbia University

Brief introduction

Exposure to air pollution is a major health issue in Africa, contributing to nearly 1 million premature deaths annually (Fisher et al., 2021). However, Africa lacks air quality monitoring capabilities as a consequence of limited expertise and logistical demands for procuring and operating air quality monitoring stations. This scenario is not only pertaining to Africa but the situation is worse and majority of the countries in Africa do not have air quality standards since knowledge of baseline levels for developing such standards are nonexistent.

In light of the above and as part of ongoing efforts to bridge air quality data gaps in emerging economies, Clean Air One Atmosphere and Columbia University’s Prof Daniel M Westervelt launched the Benin Initiative for Clean Air Solutions with a travel fund from Columbia University (see the Togo example here by Raheja et al., 2022). The Benin Initiative for Clean Air Solutions was launched in 2022 to provide a toolbox for clean air solutions in the Republic of Benin. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving local universities, the environment agency and other interested stakeholders.

Objectives

1. Air quality monitoring network: Install state-of-the-art air quality monitoring stations in key urban and rural areas to collect near-real-time data.

2. Raise Public Awareness: Engage, Educate and Empower the population about the impacts of air pollution on health and the environment.

3. Inform Policy: Provide robust data-driven insights to policymakers to develop effective environmental regulations and interventions for clean air in Benin.

4. Promote Research: Co-create, develop and support academic and scientific research on air quality and pollution control approaches.

Key Components

1. Installation of air quality monitoring stations: We aim to establish hyperlocal air sensor networks in Benin integrated with a handful of reference grade monitors in each regional capital following best practices. We currently run two miniaturized air sensor deployments at the University of Abomey-Calavi and a residential area.

2. Data management system: A centralized data management system will be established to collect, analyze, and disseminate air quality data. This system will be accessible to the public through an online portal and mobile applications.

3. Public outreach campaigns: We will draw from existing networks of expertise to launch site-specific educational campaigns to inform citizens about the sources of air pollution and ways to reduce their personal and environmental impact.

4. Capacity Building: We will deploy training programs for government officials, researchers, policymakers and community leaders to enhance their ability to address air quality issues.

Expected Outcomes

1. Improved air quality data: We will employ best practices and leverage developed regionally specific calibration factors to improve ground-based air sensor data, ensure availability of accurate and timely air quality data to the public and policymakers.

2. Enhanced public awareness: Increase public awareness about the health impacts of air pollution and measures to control and manage air pollution in Benin.

3. Policy development: Support the development of evidence-based policies and regulations aimed at reducing air pollution supported by observed ground-based data with knowledge transfer from Global North and South experts.

4. Strengthened research: Improve capacity for scientific air pollution research and innovation in air quality monitoring and pollution control building on lessons from existing works within the region.

Conclusion

The launch of the Benin Initiative for Clean Air Solutions marks a significant step forward in Benin’s commitment to improving environmental health and sustainability. By harnessing technology, fostering collaboration, and engaging the public, this project aims to create a cleaner, healthier future for all citizens.

Acknowledgements

Prof Daniel M. Westervelt, Columbia University, USA, Dr Victorien Dougnon, Lydia Sognon, Dr John Aoga, and Dr Probus Kiki all of University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin.

Appeal for support

Clean Air One Atmosphere is appealing for support — collaboration and funding to scale up these efforts for clean air in West Africa.