Implementation of an IoT architecture for promoting healthy air quality in 84 homes of families with children

IoT systems incorporating low-cost air quality sensors (LCS) have emerged as valuable tools for empowering citizens to take action to improve indoor air quality (IAQ). This work aimed to assess the effectiveness of a newly developed IoT system in promoting behavioural changes and improving IAQ in 84 homes of families with children. To accomplish this aim, a modular IoT architecture using calibrated LCS was developed to collect real-time data on CO 2 , temperature, relative humidity and particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ) during a randomised cross-over trial (November 16, 2022–January 24, 2023). The intervention under study consisted of providing access to real-time IAQ data to participants and alerting them via a smartphone app when CO 2 , PM 2.5 , and/or PM 10 concentrations were higher than the recommended limits. The findings showed that LCS readings were strongly correlated with those obtained from reference equipment. Nevertheless, long-term assessments revealed a signal degradation effect for the readings obtained from the LCS PM sensor. The comparison of IAQ data from control and intervention periods showed a significant alleviation of CO 2 concentrations (mean reduction of 10.3 % in 52 out of 84 participant homes). Notably, about 70 % of participants recognized that data presented through the app motivated them to take valuable actions to enhance IAQ. Overall, this study constitutes a step forward to provide valuable field evidence on the strengths and limitations of using IoT systems based on LCS to empower citizens on the factors that may influence exposure to air pollution at home. • An LCS-based IoT system was deployed in 84 homes for monitoring CO 2 and PM levels. • Families had access to the real-time IAQ data through a smartphone app. • Lower CO 2 levels were observed for the period in which users had access to IAQ data. • Participants recognized that have gained a better understanding on IAQ determinants. • LCS aging and calibration needs are major concerns for further investigations.