Air Quality Monitoring of Kean University and Greater Union Area
Joel Pryor
Co-Presenters: Sofia King, Cecilia Nocelo, Renato Mendez, Gina Ramos, Anaya Milian-Cruz
College: The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology
Major: Enviornmental Sciences
Faculty Research Mentor: Daniela Shebitz
Abstract:
Urbanized areas are often found to have poor air quality, resulting from human activity such as vehicles, industrial factories, overconsumption, and waste management. The presence of poor air quality increases the chances of community members developing health risks such as cancer, developmental disorders, and respiratory diseases. The overall aim of this project is to collect real-time data using portable air monitors and assess the impact of traffic emissions on local air pollution levels in and around Kean University Campus, Elizabeth River Greenway, Phil Rizzuto Park, Kennedy Reservation, and Joe Collins Park in Union Township. Through this senior capstone project, in collaboration with Groundwork Elizabeth, student researchers will use a quantitative analysis focusing on using Atmotube sensors. Measurements of the mass concentrations of pollutants in the air will be taken over a series of five weeks from February to March, 2025, simultaneously on two days. Collected data include PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 pollutants, total volatile organic compounds, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. Findings will emphasize the importance of addressing air quality issues in urbanized areas, drawing a connection between traffic and the effect of that on air quality. The analyzed data will be used to further assess the environmental pollution of the Union area and information will be presented to the public in order to limit the effect of harmful air quality.