- January 31, 2025
- Posted by: Kolawole Ojelabi
- Categories: LAMATA, LAMATA-NEWS

EPIC Awards 12 Projects to Improve Air Quality Monitoring and Data Access
The awardees are the first of 26 coming projects to receive awards during this round of funding to enhance air quality infrastructure and drive national-level impact on air pollution across 16 countries.
The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago’s (EPIC) Clean Air Program is proud to announce 12 new grantees of the EPIC Air Quality Fund. The Fund, launched last summer, supports local groups and organizations in installing air quality monitors and providing open data to some of the world’s most polluted communities. It aims to expand access to air quality data to 1 billion people by 2030, with more than $2.9 million in support from Open Philanthropy, Alpha Epsilon and other individual donors.
“Opacity and lack of data are pollution’s best friend. Time and time again, history demonstrates that reliable air quality data is an essential first building block for cleaner air and better health,” says Michael Greenstone, the Milton Friedman Distinguished Service Professor in Economics and Director of EPIC. “Citizens need the data to protect themselves against the risks of air pollution. And data is needed by policymakers to develop and enforce air quality standards so progress can be measured over time. These organizations have the power to launch this change.”
The 12 new awardees are the first of 26 projects to receive awards during this round of funding, following a call for applications that exceeded expectations with 322 submissions from 74 countries—mostly from countries identified as “higher opportunity” given their pollution levels and limited resources. The projects will be funded over an 18-month period to enhance air quality infrastructure, share the data openly, and drive national-level impact on air pollution across 16 countries by 2026.
The projects come as air pollution is recognized as the number one health risk to humankind, with EPIC’s Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) showing that the burden of pollution on life expectancy outstrips that of malaria, HIV/AIDS and transportation injuries combined. In the 16 countries where projects will be deployed, citizens are losing a combined 1.7 billion life years due to particulate pollution.
While research shows that installing air quality monitors and sharing real-time data with the public in places with very little or no data leads to cleaner air, nearly 40 percent of countries—many of which satellite data shows are highly polluted—aren’t producing open air quality data for their citizens. Of the 16 countries where projects will be deployed, more than half lack open air quality data. Only 15 government monitors provide such open data throughout these 16 countries.
The 26 projects will change that. The projects, 15 of which are led by government-related entities, plan to launch more than 700 government monitors. Seven of the projects will be the first air quality monitoring of their type in their country. Additionally, 17 of the projects aim to advocate for the creation of their country’s first national air quality standard, which currently does not exist in 13 of the awardee countries.
“EPIC Air Quality Fund awardees represent some of the world’s best chances to close air quality data gaps and advance clean air policy in places where citizens’ lives are being seriously impacted by air pollution, yet where there have been scarce resources deployed to address the issue,” says Christa Hasenkopf, director of EPIC’s Clean Air Program. “Their work is pioneering and an inspiration for their countries and the world.”
This cohort joins four ongoing projects awarded in 2024. Data produced from the projects will be shared in a fully open manner, and EPIC is partnering with the non-profit OpenAQ to ensure the data can be used in as many ways as possible by scientists, decision-makers, and the general public.
Learn more about the first 12 EPIC Air Quality Fund awardees:
Côte d’ivoire
Awardee: Centre Ivoirien Anti-Pollution, led by Ossey Bernard YAPO
The award will facilitate the establishment of a reliable and affordable air quality monitoring network in Abidjan and Korhogo, Côte d’ivoire. Data collected through the 10 low-cost monitors will be made available to various policy forums, laying the foundations for long-term goals—revising national air quality standards, developing an air quality warning system and achieving a 30-40% reduction in PM2.5 emissions.
“The project represents a unique opportunity to provide, at a very affordable cost, access to reliable information on air quality in Côte d’Ivoire and thereby strengthen our national air quality observation network (RNO-Air). It will also provide a platform for awareness raising among all stakeholders and enhanced actions on air quality at the national level.” – Bernard Ossey Yapo, Director, Centre Ivoirien Anti-Pollution
Honduras
Awardee: Aire Limpio Honduras (a project of Sustenta Honduras), led by Ricardo Pineda Guzman
The award will support the drafting of Honduras’ first comprehensive Clean Air Law while building public awareness through the deployment of 50 low-cost monitors and an educational platform reaching across 100 schools. By combining scientific evidence with grassroots engagement, the project aims to transform how Honduras addresses air pollution, moving from a country with almost no air quality monitoring to one with clear standards and legal protections for clean air.
“In Honduras, only two out of 298 municipalities had reliable air quality monitors before we began our work. Through this project and prior efforts, we aim to change that reality by expanding air quality monitoring to 80 additional communities and using this data to create Honduras’ first Clean Air Law. We’re not just installing monitors – we’re building a movement that connects data with policy action. By engaging schools, local governments, and Congress, we’re working to ensure every Honduran’s right to breathe clean air becomes protected by law.” – Ricardo Pineda Guzman, Executive Director, Sustenta Honduras
Lebanon
Awardee: AWAIR project, (University of Balamund), led by Myriam Mrad
The award will support the deployment of 80 low-cost monitors in key locations in Lebanon–such as in schools, hospitals and health care centers, and social spaces. It will also reactivate an existing reference-grade monitor that will provide real-time, open-access data to forecast trends, inform stakeholders, and guide policymakers.
“Clean air is a right. By knowing its impact and taking action, every citizen and institution can help protect their health and advocate for a healthier future. Together, we can democratize air monitoring and drive change.” – Myriam Mrad, Chair of the Public Health Department at University of Balamand
Liberia
Awardee: United Methodist University, led by Sheck Sherif; Kigali Collaborative Research Centre, led by Timothy Brown
The award will support the installation of Liberia’s first long-term, PM2.5 monitoring network with the deployment of 20 low-cost monitors and one reference-grade monitor. The ‘Clean Air for Liberia’ project is a collaborative initiative between Kigali Collaborative Research Centre, AfriqAir, Afri-SET, and the United Methodist University to address the lack of air quality monitoring in Liberia. The project aims to inform policy making, raise public awareness, and advocate for establishing Liberia’s first national air quality standard by providing actionable insights. Additionally, the initiative seeks to set a foundation to improve air quality management and public health outcomes nationwide through capacity building, community engagement, and transparent data-sharing practices.
“The ‘Clean Air for Liberia’ project is a transformative step toward addressing air quality challenges in Liberia. We aim to empower policymakers, raise public awareness, and advocate for national air quality standards by deploying advanced low-cost sensors and openly sharing data. This project is not just about monitoring – it’s about creating systemic change for a healthier and cleaner Liberia. Through collaboration with stakeholders and communities, we hope to lay the groundwork for sustainable air quality management that benefits all Liberians.” – Sheck Sherif, Project Lead, United Methodist University
Malawi
Awardee: Malawi Initiative for Clean Air Solutions (a joint partnership by Clean Air One Atmosphere and ANGA), led by Collins Gameli Hodoli
The award will support establishing a sustainable air quality monitoring network in partnership with Malawi government agencies and local institutions. Through the installation of one reference-grade monitor and a network of 30 low-cost monitors, the goal is to leverage domain-specific and meaningful open-source air quality data. The data will be used to raise awareness, visualize air quality in near real-time, support policymakers with evidence and design clean air solutions with an interdisciplinary approach.
“Growing up with kerosene lamps with no knowledge of its impact on my health then is not an experience any child should have. This notwithstanding, there are many children in Africa today going through similar ordeal and/ or worse when it comes to exposure to air pollution highlighting the disjoint between scientists and policymakers for a clean, healthy and sustainable environment in Africa. I believe we can correct this by using the little we know in air pollution science if we collaboratively work towards our common air.” – Collins Gameli Hodoli, Founder, Malawi Initiative for Clean Air Solutions; Air Quality Scientist and Diplomatic Strategist
Awardee: Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, led by Chikumbusko Chiziwa Kaonga
The award will support the monitoring of PM2.5 concentration levels across five strategically chosen districts in Malawi, deploying 20 low-cost monitors in Blantyre, Salima, Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Zomba. This monitoring network will be part of a nationwide network that provides extensive coverage and delivers real-time PM2.5 data across Malawi, making it one of the first networks of its kind in the region.
“We do hope to provide data on PM2.5 for Malawi which is very scarce. Additionally, we believe that through this project, air quality monitoring in Malawi will start to be taken as a priority. We believe that the data generated and shared, will open up doors for further collaboration both locally and internationally.” – Chikumbusko Chiziwa Kaonga, PhD – MUBAS EPIC Air Quality Project Team Leader
Mozambique
Awardee: BLAZE project (Fundacao Manhica), led by Herminio Cossa
The award will support enhancing the availability of ambient air pollution data in Mozambique through extensive monitoring in both urban and rural areas. Focused on advocating for an updated national air quality standard and stronger enforcement, the team will deploy air quality monitors that provide near real-time PM2.5 data. This crucial information will be openly accessible to decision-makers, researchers, civil society, and the public, facilitating informed decision-making and community engagement.
“With the BLAZE project we hope decision-makers and the general public become more aware of the importance of clean air for protecting health. BLAZE aims to be at the center of an open air quality ecosystem in Mozambique, bringing together all available data to inform national air quality standards and support their enforcement. We will work towards this goal through a strong coalition of researchers and civil society and stakeholder partnerships.” – Herminio Cossa, Project Lead, CISM
Nepal
Awardee: Green Decision Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd., led by Samip Sigdel
The award will support the installation of 40 low-cost monitors that will contribute significantly towards Nepal’s existing air quality network. By deploying low-cost sensors at key locations, the project seeks to track pollution levels and identify schools most impacted by poor air quality. In doing so they aim to have an improved understanding of how air pollution affects school children in Kathmandu Valley so that they can strongly advocate for cleaner air and amplify the voices of the community, ensuring they play a central role in shaping air quality policies and solutions.
“Through this project, we aim to shine a light on how air pollution disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, especially children. By combining data-driven insights with real-world health assessments, we hope to amplify the voices of children and their families in policy dialogues. It’s vital that air quality management strategies prioritize and address the unique needs of these groups, ensuring guidelines are in place to protect their health and well-being.” – Samip Sigdel, Chief Executive Officer, Green Decision Labs and Research Pvt Ltd.
Nigeria
Awardee: Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, led by Engr (Mrs.) Abimbola Akinajo
Aligned with Lagos’ goal of achieving zero-carbon status by 2050, the award will support 30 low-cost monitors across key urban areas and major traffic points in Lagos, Nigeria. These monitors will be part of the first nationwide air quality monitoring networks providing extensive coverage and real-time PM2.5 data in Lagos city. This initiative will not only offer open access to data but also aims to drive significant policy changes and enhancements, including the implementation of stricter vehicle emission standards and the strengthening of air quality regulations.
“Reducing carbon emissions is crucial as transportation remains a major contributor to climate change. In support of Lagos’ 2050 Net Zero Climate Action Plan, we are committed to sustainability through data-driven initiatives. By encouraging the deployment of low-cost sensors to collect actionable data, we align with global best practices and provide evidence to shape national policies for a cleaner, more sustainable transport system.” – Engr (Mrs.) Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director / CEO Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA)
Awardee: Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, led by Adetoun Mustapha
The award will support the deployment of 20 low-cost monitors across Lagos, Abuja, and Ibadan to collect and share real-time PM2.5 data. This project will provide critical data to shape Nigeria’s national PM2.5 standards and reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
“This project aims to elevate air quality as a critical public health issue among impacted communities and policymakers. By demonstrating that air quality significantly affects health, we seek to integrate it into national health conversations and policy decisions. With publicly accessible air quality data, communities will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to advocate for cleaner air, take steps to reduce pollution locally, and minimize their exposure to harmful air pollutants.” – Adetoun Mustapha, Principal Investigator, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research
Pakistan
Awardee: Pakistan Air Quality Initiative (PAQI), led by Abid Omar
The award will support the strengthening of Pakistan’s existing air quality monitoring network through the installation of 70 low-cost monitors in partnership with the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), a special cell set up by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan for real-time monitoring to anticipate and mitigate disaster risks. The project aims to support the implementation of Pakistan’s National Clean Air Policy (NCAP).
“Through this project, we aim to enhance the accessibility and quality of air quality data across Pakistan, empowering communities to better understand pollution in their areas. By expanding our network of air quality monitors and providing real-time data, we also aim to facilitate informed decision-making at both the individual and policy levels. Our goal is to drive actionable change that improves air quality nationwide, helping shape a future where clean air is available for all.” – Abid Omar, Founder, Pakistan Air Quality Initiative
Zimbabwe
Awardee: Kgotso Development Trust, led by Newton Matandirotya
The award will support establishing Zimbabwe’s first real-time air quality monitoring network with 35 low-cost monitors, enabling public access to air quality data and fostering awareness of pollution’s impact. The project aims to support the development of air quality management plans and evidence-based policy making.
“With support from EPIC Air Quality Fund, we will be able to establish for the first time a real-time air quality monitoring network across Zimbabwe. The network will go a long way in increasing public awareness about air pollution as well as supporting the development of mitigation strategies towards clean air.” – Newton Matandirotya, Team Leader, Kgotso Development Trust
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About EPIC Clean Air Program
The EPIC Clean Air Program is working to bring actionable information about the quality of the air we breathe and its impact on our health to every corner of the globe in order to motivate action and lay guideposts for efficient air pollution policies. This work includes an EPIC Air Quality Fund to bring high quality and high frequency air pollution monitoring and data access to the places of the world where it is needed most; the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), which uses air pollution data to translate the impact of pollution on a person’s life expectancy; and several particulate pollution trading markets being piloted in Indian cities in coordination with state governments.
For more information:
Media Contact: Vicki Ekstrom High – vekstrom@uchicago.edu
Other Inquires: Dr. Christa Hasenkopf – chasenkopf@uchicago.edu
Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) – EPIC Air Quality Fund