[icon name=”hourglass-half” prefix=”fas”] Autumn 2020 // 8 weeks // University Project Coursework // Individual
“How might we ensure that everyone living in areas with poor air quality are guaranteed their right to clean air?”
RSA
The RSA student design awards 2020 presented some challenging briefs, including ‘The Right to Breathe’.
Air pollution is a serious threat to current society that is considered to be the NO.1 environmental health risk by WHO. This issue is ever more relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through secondary research, I discovered extensive reports and research on the effects of air pollution on children. Children are more vulnerable to air pollution and its effects due to smaller lung capacity. This can lead to health complications in later life, such as asthma.
Children are also much more likely to be exposed to high levels during school commute times. To gain a better understanding, interviews were conducted with parents and their children about their experiences of air pollution.
From this, conclusions were drawn that current solutions are too short-term and there is a lack of overall engagement from schools and children. My aim was to create a solution that encourages interaction between schools and families to raise awareness of air pollution.
Research and Development
Ideation through digital drawing and refinement through feedback sessions from participants. Areas such as logo, app design and further research were focussed on.
The Solution
The visual representation of air pollution in the AirTree and subsequent campaigns (AIR and Race to 2030) gives goals and incentives to parents and children that encourages them to become future leaders in tackling global issues.
- ACTION: do your part in reducing air pollution today
- INSPIRE: others to also become aware and reduce their air pollution
- REVOLUTION: become future leaders that lead future generation
Inspired by the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN campaign, a new slogan or mantra states the goals clearly and would be memorable to children at school.
The AirTree displays hourly pollution data in accordance with the official Air Quality Index through air pollution monitors. These would be installed near schools. A large display board gives an opportunity for students to engage with challenges and for work to be displayed. It is with the vision that these displays will provide a focal point in communities and inspire passer-bys.
This would all be connected to an app that provides progress on campaigns, provide education resources to schools and children as well as games and challenges all across a regional ‘air web’ leaderboard. Incentives would be provided through grants as regions aim to reach their goals by supporting and connecting with nearby schools.
It is with the belief that strong roots are required to help develop new habits and to inspire conversation – ultimately leading to cleaner air and a brighter future.
[icon name=”tools” prefix=”fas”] Keyshot, Solidworks, Affinity Suite
