What is CurieuzeNeuzen Vlaanderen?
CurieuzeNeuzen Vlaanderen is a citizen science project that aims to map air quality in Flanders. It’s a joint University of Antwerp, De Standaard and Flemish Environment Agency initiative with support from kariboo!, VITO, HIVA – KU Leuven and AMAB vzw.
AMAB’s People-Planet-Profit philosophy makes air quality an important theme. Which is why AMAB is thrilled to collaborate on this citizen science project.
A citizen science project… what is that?
CurieusNeuzen Vlaanderen is a so-called citizen science project, namely a scientific study in which the local population roll up their sleeves (no less than 20,000 families, associations, businesses and schools are participating). Citizens collect data on air quality under the guidance of professional scientists. This is done by hanging a simple measurement device on a window of their house, apartment or building.
What do we measure?
The concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the air is measured throughout the entire month of May. NO2 is an important indicator of air traffic pollution. Each measurement set contains two measuring tubes which selectively extract NO2 molecules from the air. The tubes are subsequently sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Why do we measure?
The data compiled is used to extensively map air quality in Flanders, both in the city and countryside. The existing air quality computer models are then rigorously tested and improved using the new data. CuriousNeuzen Flanders wishes to make citizens aware of a healthy living environment and highlight the importance of air quality. The fact that these measurements are being conducted on such a large scale is an international first. And, what could be better than helping to collectively solve a challenging scientific problem?
OK, OK… but what is AMAB’s role in this project?
Well, there can be no measurements without a measurement pack. AMAB offered its assistance in the logistical and operational preparation of this national research. We carefully compiled each measurement pack containing the following items:
- 2 measuring tubes
- 1 measuring sign
- 2 cable ties
- 1 return envelope
- 1 instruction manual
- 1 window poster
- 1 poster for the subsequent results
- 1 sticker
- Several neighbourhood flyers
The various items meant that numerous suppliers were involved in this project. As a logistics and operational hub, a collaboration with AMAB is essential for this type of project. AMAB is not only responsible for the compilation of the measurement pack. Our service goes much further:
- Your partners can deliver directly to us.
- We conduct quantitative and qualitative checks upon receipt and identification of the goods.
- You receive an update after each delivery.
- We subsequently store the products in our conditioned depot until the campaign.
- We have the requisite manpower and filling lines for the filling of these measuring packs at our disposal.
- In order to be able to deliver everything to kariboo! in an orderly fashion, we place the packs in pallet boxes and supply these with the necessary identification stickers.
At the end of the measurement phase … AMAB springs into action once again!
Simply remove your measuring sign from the window and return the two measuring tubes to a kariboo! pick-up point of your choice. AMAB additionally supports the return logistics. The return envelopes are sent to AMAB afterwards. We retrieve the measuring tubes and, based on their lot code, ensure that they arrive at the right lab within 48 hours. This enables the timely commencement of the analysis.
National media campaigns with strict deadlines are no problem for AMAB! Curious about our capabilities? Contact us!
1: pack composition
4: AMAB is also participating
2: window measuring set
5: measuring tube operation
3: start the measurement
6: return logistics not sorted
7: return logistics sorted
8: result
