In the great archipelago of Indonesia, a public health challenge has been looming large for years, the escalating issue of air pollution. The World Bank has projected the cost of health damages associated with global air pollution exposure to be around $8.1 trillion, nearly 6.1 per cent of the worldwide GDP. As the world grapples with this crisis, Indonesia stands as one of the worst affected nations, its air being among the world’s most polluted. However, a beacon of hope shines in the form of local air cleaning technology experts, Nafas.
Nafas, a pioneer in clean air technology, has taken the initiative to address this pressing issue. The team at Nafas has embarked on an ambitious project to set up an extensive network of local air sensors. These sensors, strategically placed, will be instrumental in aiding communities to better manage and control their health in the face of fluctuating air quality.
The Nafas Application: An Innovative Solution
The Nafas mobile application, a cornerstone of their initiative, is readily available and free for use. This application provides users with real-time data on the quality of the air around them. Its user-friendly design allows individuals to set their preferred locations and receive alerts when conditions change, thereby enabling better decision making.
The interface is color-coded using green, yellow, and orange to represent various air quality levels, simplifying the decision-making process for families who are contemplating whether to travel or spend time outdoors. For users seeking a deeper understanding of the situation, the platform offers in-depth articles penned by experts, keeping them abreast of the latest air quality news and research.
The Technology Behind Nafas
Nafas leverages its proprietary technology in tandem with Airly air sensors to set up its network. The Airly sensors, designed for outdoor use, are robust and enduring, capable of withstanding high temperatures and significant rainfall. Every sensor installed by Nafas is carefully calibrated for its specific location, optimizing the accuracy of the data collected.
Nafas extends an invitation to businesses and organizations to support this initiative, both financially and physically, by hosting a sensor. The health of employees and customers directly impacts industries across the board, including schools, transport, retail, and hospitality. It’s evident then, that investing in air quality management is not just a philanthropic endeavor, but also a sensible business strategy.
Progress and Future Goals
With more than 180 sensors already installed in Jabodetabek, Nafas is making strides toward providing hyperlocal air quality information to neighbourhoods and families. The company’s future plans involve expanding its network to increase coverage density and its ability to map changes across some of the country’s most populous cities. This expansion will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the air quality landscape in Indonesia, allowing for more targeted efforts to combat pollution.
Innovations for Cleaner Air
The deterioration of air quality has sparked a wave of innovation, with new cleaning products appearing to address every aspect of life. Some of the intriguing examples listed in Springwise’s database include light-sensitive concrete capable of cleaning the air in road tunnels and a lampshade coating that interacts with pollutants to transform them into harmless compounds.
In conclusion, while the issue of air pollution is undeniably grave, there are reasons to be hopeful. Enterprises like Nafas, with their innovative approaches and concerted efforts, provide us with optimism. Their work is a reminder that challenges can often be the catalyst for progress and innovation. The journey toward cleaner air is a long one, but with each small step, we move closer to the goal.