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About Air Quality Monitoring Our team is dedicated to monitoring and improving air quality in Kalamazoo through a network of strategically placed air monitors. By translating real-time data, we aim to inform the community about air quality and its impacts. In addition to data analysis, we conduct extensive literature and policy reviews to address environmental justice issues related to poor air quality. Air quality often suffers due to industrial practices and policies that overlook the impact of contaminants, particularly in communities where Black, Brown, and economically disadvantaged individuals reside. At the Institute of Public Scholarship, we are committed to tracking these trends and advocating for the health and well-being of humans, animals, and plant life in these affected areas. The significance of the air we breathe is often underestimated, yet it profoundly impacts our health and environment. Understanding why air quality matters is essential for the well-being of our entire community. Our Air Quality Team investigates air pollution sources, impacts through state and national policies, research articles, air quality monitor data, and environmental programs and organizations. Poor air quality poses serious health risks to everyone in our community. Exposure to pollutants like particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other health complications. Beyond human health, air quality also affects our environment by harming vegetation, damaging ecosystems, and contributing to climate change. Protecting air quality is crucial for preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. |
Events & Resources 
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View the Air Quality live in Kalamazoo with Purple Air. Purple Air provides air monitoring systems across the country and internationally for accurate and fast air quality monitoring.
The Air Quality Monitoring Team
Kennedy Williams (Co-Lead)
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Reeta Chandler (Co-Lead)
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Dr. Binney Girdler
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Statement from Dr. Michelle S. Johnson (Executive Director of the Institute):
"Air is an essential element for all beings on this planet. The health and quality of the air is a significant indicator of our overall health as a human and environmental culture. Air quality suffers through industry and practices that do not take into account the impact of contaminants, especially in locations where Black, Brown, and economically challenged individuals live. The Institute of Public Scholarship is deeply committed to tracking these trends and advocating for the humans, animals, and plant life that live in these environments."
"Air is an essential element for all beings on this planet. The health and quality of the air is a significant indicator of our overall health as a human and environmental culture. Air quality suffers through industry and practices that do not take into account the impact of contaminants, especially in locations where Black, Brown, and economically challenged individuals live. The Institute of Public Scholarship is deeply committed to tracking these trends and advocating for the humans, animals, and plant life that live in these environments."