A project asking runners to collect samples of air will report its findings in October

Some people run up a street — Photo: Good Gym Barnet

A citizen science project to sample the air quality of Barnet will be publishing its final report this month.

Supporteed by Middlesex University, Barnet Council, barnet Friends of the Earth, Barnet CAN and Good Gym Barnet are aiming to assess air quality across North London as part of this groundbreaking initiative, runners have been hitting the streets equipped with air quality monitors that track pollution levels in real time.

Every day, volunteers have contributed to a growing body of data that reveals the true state of Barnet’s air. By running, cycling, and even commuting by tube with these monitors, a comprehensive picture of how air quality fluctuates across the borough is being created.

Using a dedicated app, runners can see air quality readings as they go about their activities, offering immediate insight into the environmental challenges faced by our community.

According to Good Gym Barnet: “the data collected so far suggests that this could have important implications for urban planning, public health, and transportation in the area.”

The project is an example of citizen science, where members of the public contribute small amounts of data to a larger dataset, allowing measurements to take place on a wider basis than a small amount of data collectors could collect.

Those wishing to take part can find out more information at the Good Gym Barnet website: https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions/air-quality-citizen-science-for-barnet

The final report will be available in October.

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