Open-Source Data and Digital Platforms: Catalyzing Scalable & Collaborative Solutions for Clean Air through OpenAQ

OpenAQ is the world's largest open-source, open-access air quality data platform. It provides over 2 billion measurements from more than 22,500 sources across 142 countries. OpenAQ offers a standardized and harmonized approach to accessing diverse air quality data from a wide variety of air sensors and reference-grade monitors. The platform enhances data findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability for various research and application needs.

By openly sharing air quality data, OpenAQ maximizes the value of the data collected, leveraging the skills of interested parties in and beyond the community to produce the scientific research, communications, and evidence-based solutions needed to reduce air pollution.

OpenAQ trains groups on how to use the platform, prioritizing those working to reduce air pollution in vulnerable communities, and OpenAQ provides leadership training for emerging air quality leaders in low- and middle-income countries through its Clean Air Community Ambassador Program.

This session provides an overview of OpenAQ’s work to democratize access to air quality data, including such tools, resources and programs as: 

• OpenAQ Explorer (https://explore.openaq.org): A user-friendly tool for visualizing and downloading harmonized air quality data from a global map
• Programmatic Access: Advanced options for data integration that are available through the OpenAQ API and accessible via an OpenAQ R client and Python SDK
• AQI Hub (https://aqihub.info/): A resource for understanding and comparing how different countries report Air Quality Indices (AQIs)
• Clean Air Community Ambassador Program (https://ambassadors.openaq.org/): a program to empower the next generation of changemakers to use air quality data in support of community action