New interactive map shows air-quality health index at Pan Am sites

This screengrab of the AirSensors map shows the air-quality health index at Pam Am sites across the Greater Toronto Area on July 15, 2015.

A new interactive map that was developed with the help of Canadian researchers at the University of Toronto is monitoring air pollution exposure during the 2015 Pan Am Games.

Dubbed "AirSensors," the map shows the air quality health index at Pan Am sites across the Greater Toronto Area.

"While Toronto's air quality is better than many global cities that have hosted major sporting events, poor air quality days do occur," a news release from the university said earlier this week. "The AirSensors website will help residents and visitors – especially those with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions – to plan the timing and location of their activities."

Launched with the help of Greg Evans, a University of Toronto chemical engineering professor, the map's air quality information is based on data collected from AirSENCE devices. They make up an air quality monitoring system that was also partly developed by Evans and his team.

"Each AirSENCE device uses an array of 14 sensors to estimate concentrations of five air pollutants: nitrogen oxides, ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide," Evans said in the release. "This allows people to monitor air pollution in their local environment in real-time."

The map relies on prototypes of the AirSENCE devices. Following the Games, Evans said they will be upgraded and deployed at other locations.

"In 2016, we will launch the devices in Beijing," he said. "Ultimately, AirSENCE will enable users worldwide to make better-informed choices to manage their exposure to outdoor or indoor pollutants."