Fernando Velarde Apaza, is a researcher part of the Laboratory for Atmospheric Physics at Mayor de San Andrés University and is in charge of the CHC-GAW station, has helped strategically deploy a series of low-cost air quality sensors, including two measuring PM2.5, across La Paz. The goal of the project is to provide scientists, policymakers, and the public with more comprehensive information of air quality and how they are transported across the region. The next stage of the project involves deploying a reference-grade monitor to help calibrate monitors for new locations and to build the team’s technical capacity.
“A combination of satellite data, low-cost sensor data, reference-grade data, and advanced modeling techniques must be used to better understand what is polluting our air. Further, we need communication of this information, we need action plans and active participation from everyone. This integrated approach is crucial for addressing the complex issue of air pollution and working towards cleaner air.” – Dr. Fernando Velarde Apaza
Country Profile (Bolivia): Opportunity Score 11.8 (High): Annual average PM2.5 levels are more than 5 times the WHO Guideline. There is no public PM2.5 data produced by the government, nor is there a national ambient air quality standard for PM2.5.