By Matthew Sims
Primary school pupils across Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Brimbank schools will become some of the most important data collectors on air pollution across the western suburbs over the coming months.
Deakin University and Dyson are partnering as part of the Breathe Melbourne study, which will involve Kingsville Primary School, Spotswood Primary School, Wembley Primary School, Deer Park North Primary School, Newport Lakes Primary School and Ardeer Primary School pupils wearing Dyson air quality backpacks to capture air pollution data along their daily school trips.
Deakin University study lead researcher Dr Kate Lycett said the study will run until the end of May.
“We hope the project will nurture children’s scientific curiosity, improve our understanding of air pollution, and ultimately lead to behaviour and government policy changes to reduce changes to reduce exposure to air pollution in Melbourne’s inner west,” she said.
The backpacks will collect and monitor the amount of a number of pollutants, including PM2.5 (including smoke, bacteria and allergens) and nitrogen dioxide, which is found in the cigarette smoke and vehicle fumes.
Pupils will also be able to access air quality resources via the James Dyson Foundation and two of the participating schools taking part in the Idle Off project, which explores the risks of idling vehicles.
Dyson engineer James Shale said along with the Breathe London study, the study is on the forefront of air quality studies creating a picture of global air quality.
“Maybe in the future, that inspires people to develop better renewable technology or learn to use more sustainable solutions,” he said.
Spotswood Primary School principal Jackie Green said the school community is excited to be part of the project.
“Living and learning close to some of Melbourne’s busiest roads, it is important for us to understand more about the quality of the air in our local area,” she said.
