Air pollution remains one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, impacting millions of lives and posing a significant threat to the environment. Despite increasing awareness and advances in technology, many parts of the world still struggle to monitor and manage air quality effectively. The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) has launched the Air Quality Fund to address this critical issue by enhancing global air quality monitoring capabilities. This fund, aimed at closing gaps in PM2.5 data in regions where monitoring is limited or non-existent, provides a crucial opportunity for organizations to contribute to global efforts in combating air pollution. With the application deadline set for September 10, 2024, this initiative is not just timely but vital for a cleaner and healthier world.

What is EPIC?

The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) is a leading research organization focused on developing and promoting solutions to some of the world’s most pressing energy and environmental challenges. Founded with the mission to apply rigorous research to real-world problems, EPIC works at the intersection of energy markets, environmental policy, and public health. The institute is known for its interdisciplinary approach, combining economics, policy analysis, and science to address complex issues such as climate change, energy access, and pollution.

EPIC's initiatives are designed to inform policy decisions that can lead to sustainable and equitable energy futures. The Air Quality Fund is a clear extension of EPIC’s broader mission, focusing specifically on the critical need for accurate air quality data. By supporting the installation of air quality monitors and the open sharing of data, the fund aims to empower governments, organizations, and communities to make informed decisions that can significantly reduce pollution levels and improve public health outcomes.

The Urgent Need for the EPIC Air Quality Fund

Air pollution is not just a local problem; it is a global crisis with far-reaching health and environmental impacts. Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, is one of the most dangerous pollutants. These tiny particles, which are 2.5 micrometers or smaller, can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to a variety of health problems, including respiratory infections, heart disease, and stroke. According to EPIC’s Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), air pollution reduces life expectancy more than malaria, HIV/AIDS, and transportation injuries combined.

Despite the severe health risks associated with PM2.5, many countries lack the infrastructure and resources to monitor air quality effectively. Nearly 40 percent of countries, many of which are among the most polluted, do not have open access to air quality data. This lack of data makes it difficult for governments and organizations to develop and implement effective policies to combat air pollution.

The EPIC Air Quality Fund is designed to address this significant gap by providing financial support to organizations that aim to measure and share outdoor PM2.5 data. The fund targets countries where air quality monitoring is limited, with a particular focus on regions where the health impacts of pollution are most severe. By improving the availability and transparency of air quality data, the EPIC Air Quality Fund enables governments and communities to take meaningful action against air pollution.

What Does the EPIC Air Quality Fund Offer?

The EPIC Air Quality Fund offers a unique opportunity for a wide range of organizations, including governmental bodies, non-profits, universities, and private companies, to access funding for air quality monitoring projects. The fund provides grants of up to $50,000 for lower-cost sensors and $75,000 or more for regulatory-grade equipment. This funding is intended to support the purchase and installation of air quality monitors, as well as the ongoing collection and sharing of data.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must be capable of legally receiving funds from a U.S. institution and must have a working bank account. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to providing open access to the air quality data they collect. This commitment to transparency is a key criterion for receiving funding, as the ultimate goal of the EPIC Air Quality Fund is to make air quality data widely available for public use and policy development.

What Does the Fund Support?

Projects that receive funding are expected to make a tangible impact on air quality monitoring and policy. Here’s what the fund supports:

• Focus on PM2.5 Data: Projects must aim to measure and share outdoor PM2.5 data for at least 12 months over an 18-month period.
• Data Transparency: All applicants must commit to providing full, open access to their air quality data. This includes data shared through APIs under a CC-BY-4.0 license, ideally in a machine-readable format such as CSV, and with precise geographic coordinates.
• National Impact: Projects should strive to influence national air quality policies, raise public awareness, or drive financial investments toward reducing air pollution.

Application Requirements and Process

Applying for the EPIC Air Quality Fund requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the fund’s objectives. Applicants are required to submit a detailed project proposal that outlines the scope, impact, and methodology of their air quality monitoring initiative. This proposal should clearly demonstrate how the project will contribute to closing gaps in PM2.5 data and how the data collected will be used to influence air quality policies, raise public awareness, or attract further investment in air quality improvements.

Here are the key criteria that applicants should focus on when preparing their proposals:

• Focus on PM2.5 Data: Projects must aim to measure outdoor PM2.5 levels, which are critical for assessing the health impacts of air pollution. The data collected should be specific to PM2.5, as this pollutant poses the greatest risk to human health.
• National-Level Impact: Proposals should demonstrate how the project will have a significant impact at the national level. This could include influencing air quality policies or standards, raising awareness about the health risks of air pollution, or catalyzing financial investments to reduce pollution levels.
• Country Location: Priority is given to projects in the 75 countries identified as having a high or medium-high potential for national-level impact.
• Data Transparency: Applicants must commit to openly sharing their air quality data. The data should be made available in a machine-readable format, such as CSV, and should be accessible to the public at no cost. Ideally, the data should be shared through an API under a Creative Commons license, allowing for widespread use and analysis.
• Project Feasibility: The proposal should include a detailed methodology for data collection and sharing, as well as a timeline and budget for the project. Applicants should demonstrate that their project is feasible and that they have the necessary resources and expertise to successfully implement the project.
• Budget Justification: The proposal should include a detailed budget that justifies each expense. The budget should align with the funding limits set by the EPIC Air Quality Fund and should demonstrate efficient use of resources.
• Support Letters: Including letters of support from relevant stakeholders, such as government agencies, non-profits, or community organizations, can strengthen an application. These letters should demonstrate broad backing for the project and highlight the potential for collaboration.

The deadline for submitting applications is September 10, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to start the application process early to ensure that they have enough time to prepare a comprehensive and compelling proposal.

Why Airveda Supports the EPIC Air Quality Fund

At Airveda, we are deeply committed to improving air quality through accurate and accessible air quality monitoring. As a leading provider of air quality monitors, we understand the importance of having reliable data to inform public health decisions and environmental policies. The EPIC Air Quality Fund’s emphasis on PM2.5 data and data transparency aligns perfectly with our mission to empower individuals, communities, and governments with the information they need to protect their health and advocate for cleaner air.

Airveda’s air quality monitors are designed to meet the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. Our monitors are fully compliant with the EPIC Air Quality Fund’s criteria, ensuring that all data generated is owned by the user and can be shared openly on public platforms. This commitment to data ownership and transparency is at the core of our product design, as we believe that open access to air quality data is essential for driving meaningful change.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Your Air Quality Monitoring Project

When applying for the EPIC Air Quality Fund, it is crucial to select air quality monitoring equipment that meets the fund’s strict criteria for data ownership and sharing. Not all air quality monitors are created equal, and choosing the right equipment can make a significant difference in the success of your project.

For example Airveda’s monitors are specifically designed to meet the needs of organizations that require high-quality, reliable data for public use. Our equipment provides real-time data on PM2.5 levels, enabling organizations to monitor air quality accurately and contribute valuable data to global efforts. Moreover, our monitors are user-friendly and can be easily integrated into existing monitoring networks, ultimately contributing to passing the EPIC funds criteria.

How to Apply for the EPIC Air Quality Fund

Applying for the EPIC Air Quality Fund is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Visit the EPIC Air Quality Fund page to access the application form and review the detailed requirements.
• Align with EPIC’s Goals: Clearly demonstrate how your project addresses PM2.5 data gaps and aligns with EPIC’s objectives.
• Showcase Impact: Provide a compelling narrative on how your project will influence air quality policies, raise public awareness, or drive financial investments. Highlight any past successes or relevant experiences.
• Detailed Methodology: Outline a comprehensive and feasible plan for measuring and sharing PM2.5 data, including specifics about the equipment, locations, and data collection strategies.
• Emphasize Transparency: Commit to open access for the collected data and explain how this will benefit public health and policy-making.
• Focus on Priority Countries: Tailor your application to target one of the 75 high-priority countries identified by EPIC.
• Submit your application by September 10, 2024. Make sure all required documents are included and that your proposal is as detailed and compelling as possible.

This funding opportunity is a rare chance to contribute to global efforts to improve air quality and public health. By applying for the EPIC Air Quality Fund, you can help fill critical gaps in air quality data and support the development of policies that can lead to cleaner air and healthier communities.

Conclusion

The EPIC Air Quality Fund represents a significant opportunity for organizations around the world to enhance their air quality monitoring capabilities. By providing funding for projects that fill data gaps and promote transparency, the fund aims to support global efforts to reduce air pollution and protect public health. At Airveda, we are proud to support this initiative and are committed to providing high-quality air quality monitoring solutions that meet the highest standards of accuracy and data transparency.

We encourage all eligible organizations to apply for the EPIC Air Quality Fund and take advantage of this unique opportunity to make a difference in the fight against air pollution. For more information on our air quality monitors and how they can support