Smart environmental drone utilization for monitoring urban air quality

Abstract

Urban air quality has significant and far-reaching impacts on both human health and the broader environment. Pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), for instance, are associated with a range of health issues including respiratory conditions, asthma, heart diseases, and even contribute to low birth weight in newborns. These health implications extend to larger environmental concerns such as air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and global climate change. Recognizing the urgent need for effective and dynamic air quality monitoring solutions, this paper explores the use of smart environmental drones as a promising approach. Our drone is equipped with a state-of-the-art, low-cost particulate matter sensor that can accurately measure PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Operating at a flight speed of 10 m/s and capable of covering a range of 5 km, the drone executes a pre-programmed flight plan to autonomously map pollution levels across urban areas. With a 95% accuracy rate in sensor readings, our model significantly minimizes potential errors commonly associated with traditional air quality monitoring methods. Furthermore, it simplifies maintenance procedures, reducing both time and financial costs. By employing drone technology in this innovative manner, our model offers a cost-effective, reliable, and dynamic solution for monitoring urban air quality. It provides real-time, actionable pollution indices that can inform public health decisions, regulatory policies, and community awareness, thereby contributing to the broader goal of improving air quality and public health.