Integration of GIS in air quality monitoring: a review of low-income neighbourhoods in South Africa

Air pollution is a major environmental and public health concern, particularly in low-income neighbourhoods with poor monitoring infrastructure. However, the advent of the 4th industrial revolution presents solutions for low-income neighbourhoods fraught with poor monitoring infrastructure. For instance, the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offers a solution for low-income neighbourhoods with poor monitoring infrastructure by integrating remote sensing, land use regression models, and participatory mapping. The integration of GIS into air quality monitoring supports the Sustainable Development Goals of good health and well-being by offering data-driven solutions for pollution management and safeguarding public health. As such, it equips policymakers and communities with spatial knowledge to facilitate informed decision-making for a cleaner and healthier future. Against this background, the current study presents a structured narrative review that entails the application of GIS in air quality monitoring, highlighting its role in identifying pollution hotspots, informing public health interventions, and supporting environmental justice. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines were used to guide the literature search and screening process and ensure transparency. Results indicate that GIS improves spatial analysis, pollution modelling, and empowers communities with air quality data. However, challenges such as outdated technology, data accuracy issues, and a lack of skilled personnel limit its full implementation. Addressing these challenges requires investments in GIS infrastructure, capacity-building programs, and the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and low-cost sensor networks. Due to the heterogeneity of GIS techniques, air pollutants assessed, spatial scales, and air quality datasets reported across the reviewed studies, the findings of this review were synthesised using a narrative approach rather than through statistical meta-analysis. Future research should focus on enhancing GIS methodologies, improving data accessibility, and strengthening policy frameworks to ensure sustainable air quality management.