Parkrose School District and Argos Scientific Partner to Monitor Air Pollution Near Schools and Provide New Avenues of Educational Integration

Participatory Science
Oral Presentation

Prepared by A. Shiferaw1, M. Lopes-Serrao2, H. Gebhart1
1 - Argos Scientific, Inc., 4600 NW Camas Meadows Dr, Suite 100, Camas, Washington, 98607, United States
2 - Parkrose School District Office, 10636 NE Prescott St., Portland, Oregon, 97220, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 360-762-9938

ABSTRACT

In an innovative move towards environmental justice and education, the Parkrose School District in Portland, Oregon, has partnered with Argos Scientific to address potential air pollution risks associated with the construction of Prologis Inc.'s 38-bay logistics warehouse near local schools. This project is a pioneering example of a community actively participating in environmental monitoring and safeguarding health and wellness at a grassroots level.

Central to this initiative is the deployment of a comprehensive air monitoring network within the Parkrose community. This network features a broad array of low-cost particulate matter monitors, providing real-time data essential for community advocacy, particularly in response to the environmental impact of the new logistics warehouse. By enabling access to real-time air quality information, the network arms the community with the power to proactively address and mitigate potential environmental challenges.

In addition to monitoring efforts, a significant aspect of this collaboration is the integration of educational programs on air monitoring within the school curriculum. This educational initiative merges activism, policy, legislation, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) disciplines into a cohesive learning experience. It is designed not only to enlighten students about their local environment but also to equip them with the tools and knowledge necessary for active participation in community advocacy. This approach fosters critical thinking and empowers students to be proactive about the air quality in their surroundings while gaining insights into technology, science, computer science, and policy.

This presentation will provide an update on the current status of the particulate matter monitoring network and discuss the strategies employed by Argos Scientific to foster school involvement and engagement. This case study is one of the first of its kind, where an educational approach is directly tied to community environmental monitoring, showcasing a novel model for community engagement in environmental health.