The Smarter Birmingham Air Quality Sensor Project grew out of conversations between Gasp and Nathan McMinn about using innovative technology to collect and share air quality data with residents and researchers alike. We are building a robust, innovative network of low-cost sensors that will improve access to information about current air quality and enhance the public's understanding of air pollution. This data will be available to researchers — like those at UAB, Samford, Miles, and other local schools — to study health impacts of air pollution on Alabamians.

Nathan McMinn is the Chief Technology Officer at MNMX.io, where he works on making it easier to gather environmental data using the Internet of Things. He believes that better data helps tell better stories, and those stories are the key to real action on air pollution. He is dedicated to using information to help people decide how and where to live, work and play.

Our goal is to raise $50,000 this year to launch this innovative project. Sponsor an air monitor for $125 — the approximate current cost per unit — or donate any amount that fits your budget. (Every dollar helps!)

Looking for other ways to help? If you love to tinker with gadgets, develop software, or have experience with product design, we'd love to have you as part of the team! We're working with Red Mountain Makers to test prototypes like the one you see in the video. Email smarterbham@gaspgroup.org and we'll do our best to plug you in.