National and state governments interact cooperatively to advance the understanding and use of real-time data generated by emerging technologies. This project includes components that aim to promote quality data, identify new technologies as they come on the market, communicate short-term data to the public, and standardize data collection.
CHALLENGE
A new strategic approach is needed to address the rapid increase of environmental monitors and the resulting data. The Advanced Monitoring Project aims to provide a knowledge base for agencies to understand, select, approve, and use the array of new environmental monitoring technologies.
BENEFITS
- Facilitates efficient industrial process and pollution control, including more efficient leak detection
- Empowers individuals to make personal behavioral decisions such as choosing to forgo a jog during the peak occurrence of certain pollutants
- Reduces reliance on government resources
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
U.S. EPA Office of Air and Radiation:
- Third Party Certification Team hosted a June 2018 workshop deliberating performance targets for PM2.5 and Ozone monitors
- Data Interpretation Team developed two beta websites interpreting real-time sensor data alongside regulatory monitors
EPA Office of Water:
- Data Standards Team issued recommendations regarding existing standards used for continuous monitoring data
EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance:
- Scan & Screen Network Team created a clearinghouse with information about new technologies for states, locals, tribes, and EPA offices
UPCOMING MILESTONES
- Third-Party Certification Team will develop performance targets and standards
EXTERNAL LINKS
- “Advanced Monitoring Technology, Opportunities and Challenges,” This article appears in the November 2016 issue of EM Magazine, a copyrighted publication of the Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA; www.awma.org).