Spreading Air Quality Awareness: Climate Change Agents in Action!
Climate Change Agents is an organization dedicated to cultivating community connections and engagement through digital storytelling and environmental education. By addressing a range of environmental challenges that impact communities, they empower individuals to better understand and combat these issues. One key initiative involves the use of PurpleAir sensors, providing real-time air quality data to help communities make informed decisions.
The History of Air Quality Monitoring in St. Louis
In early 2024, the American Lung Association released its annual State of the Air report, ranking the St. Louis metropolitan area as the 30th most polluted in the nation for ozone. Several nearby counties also received failing grades for both ozone and annual particle pollution. These alarming statistics underscored a pressing need for action—air quality in St. Louis wasn’t improving on its own.
Responding to this crisis, Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU), a local community organization, partnered with Washington University in St. Louis on an air quality monitoring project. They installed air quality monitors at churches and community centers across the metro area, providing residents with valuable data to make informed health decisions. The project was a success, but when it ended, the sensors were removed, leaving communities without access to real-time air quality information.
To bridge this gap, Climate Change Agents partnered with MCU to install PurpleAir sensors in key locations, restoring access to this crucial data. By putting these tools back in the hands of local residents, the project has empowered communities to stay informed and protect their health.
What Does Climate Change Agents Do?
At its core, Climate Change Agents uses digital storytelling, community engagement, and environmental education to drive change. But what does that look like in practice?
Digital Storytelling
According to the American Library Association, digital storytelling involves "creating and sharing stories using digital tools"—often through social media platforms. For Climate Change Agents, this means producing engaging, educational videos for YouTube and TikTok.
Their content covers a variety of topics, including:
- Understanding AQI (Air Quality Index)
- The Impact of Fireworks on Air Pollution
- How to set up and maintain PurpleAir sensors (as seen in their video: "Is My Air Monitor Too High?")
By making complex environmental issues digestible and accessible, Climate Change Agents helps communities stay informed and engaged.
You can find a full list of their videos on this YouTube playlist!
In-Person Workshops & Education
Beyond social media, Climate Change Agents takes their mission into the real world. They host hands-on workshops at schools and community centers, educating students, teachers, and residents about things like:
- Air quality and pollution sources
- PurpleAir sensors
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and air quality data analysis
By blending technology, education, and community action, Climate Change Agents ensures that environmental knowledge isn't just accessible—it's actionable.