Frequently asked questions about Clarity air quality sensors and air pollution measurement equipment.
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Clarity Movement Co. is an environmental technology company providing a complete Sensing-as-a-Service solution for ambient air quality monitoring. Their offering includes solar-powered Node-S air quality sensors, a cloud-based data platform, and expert support—empowering governments, businesses, schools, and communities to measure air pollution reliably and affordably.
Clarity’s Sensing-as-a-Service℠ bundles sensors, software, data connectivity, and support into a single subscription. You deploy Node-S air pollution sensors, and Clarity handles data transmission, calibration, and ongoing maintenance. There are no hidden costs—just fast, simple setup and real-time data via the Clarity Cloud.
Clarity sensors are calibrated using remote and local methods to ensure decision-grade accuracy. Their patented Remote Calibration system aligns low-cost sensor data with regulatory standards, and ongoing updates (e.g. wildfire calibration models) keep data accurate even in extreme conditions. Third-party evaluations show strong performance compared to reference monitors.
Clarity sensors are deployed in 85+ countries and 250+ cities, collecting billions of data points globally. Projects include Breathe London, Los Angeles Unified schools, and Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Clarity supports governments, NGOs, researchers, and industry.
Traditional monitors are expensive and sparse. Clarity offers dense sensor networks that are easy to deploy (solar-powered, cellular-enabled) and deliver hyperlocal data in real time. The fully integrated system removes complexity—hardware, software, and calibration come together in one seamless platform.
Clarity serves cities and regulators, communities, schools, industries, and researchers. Customers—from the Mayor of London’s office to small rural counties—use Clarity’s data to inform policy, protect public health, manage compliance, and engage the public.
The most common ambient (or outdoor) air pollutants are Particulate Matter (PM 10 and PM2.5), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2).
Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5 and PM1) is a common & impactful air pollutant resulting primarily from combustion, including industrial activities, vehicles, & wildfires. Particulate matter differs greatly in its concentration and composition across the world but has a significant impact on public health in most countries. It is classified according to the size of its particles, the smaller categorization of which — PM2.5 — accounts for much of the pollutant’s detrimental effect on human and environmental health. Although the effects of PM are well studied, it remains in excess of benchmark levels for a large majority of the world’s population, prompting the need to take action in order to achieve cleaner air. Learn more about Particulate Matter here.
Ozone or O3, occurs both in the upper atmosphere and at the ground level. While it is a helpful substance in the upper atmosphere — forming a layer around the Earth to protect the planet’s surface from the sun’s ultraviolet rays — ozone acts as a pollutant at the ground level, causing negative effects on human and environmental health. Also known as ambient or tropospheric ozone, ground-level ozone is the primary component of the type of air pollution commonly referred to as smog. It is a colorless gas that is composed of three atoms of oxygen. Learn more about Ozone here.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a subtype of a class of air pollutants known as nitrogen oxides (NOx). It primarily results from fuel combustion from sources such as motor vehicles and industrial activities. Nitrogen dioxide has significant impacts on human and environmental health, most notably when it comes to respiratory and cardiovascular health. Learn more about Nitrogen Dioxide here.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas formed by the incomplete combustion of fuel. It is very dangerous as it can displace the oxygen in the human body and lead to deadly poisoning. It is produced from fuel-burning appliances. Learn more about Carbon Monoxide here.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) is an air pollutant composed primarily of sulfur and oxygen. It results from combustion of coal, oil or diesel. It causes harmful effects on the lungs.
Yes — Clarity’s air quality sensors are specifically designed to detect fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is a major component of wildfire smoke. In addition, Clarity offers modular pollutant measurement capabilities including nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), and black carbon, allowing for tailored monitoring of specific air pollution sources such as traffic, industry, or biomass burning.
Clarity provides the tools to make air quality data publicly accessible through its OpenMap air quality data platform, which enables organizations to share real-time data with communities, stakeholders, and the general public. While the data is not open-source by default, it can be transparently published and easily embedded into websites, dashboards, or public health initiatives.
Monitoring air quality empowers communities to protect public health and helps businesses reduce risk, demonstrate environmental responsibility, and ensure compliance with regulations. With real-time data, decision-makers can respond quickly to pollution events, track long-term trends, and implement evidence-based strategies that improve air quality and quality of life.
There are two types of air pollution causes: natural sources and human-caused (AKA anthropogenic) sources.
Natural events can cause air pollution such as wind that carries dust and gases in locations with little green cover to absorb it, living beings release gases such as oxygen from plants during photosynthesis or methane from cattle but also volcanic eruptions, smoke, and ashes from wildfires.
Human-caused air pollution comes from various human activities including burning fossil fuels, agriculture, transportation, electricity, and industries. These activities result in emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter.
Air pollution affects nearly every area of the human body — from head to toe. It is a major environmental risk factor for a slew of diseases, from Alzheimer’s disease to lung cancer to osteoporosis, and can significantly lower lifespan and quality of life. Air pollution accounts for extensive damage to public health, while its exposure impacts everyone, its damage is not distributed equally. Children, elderly individuals, those with pre-existing conditions, and those living in low socioeconomic neighborhoods or environmental justice communities bear a disproportionate burden of its impacts — emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable populations by taking better care of our air quality.
In general, the wide-reaching damage caused by air pollution is thought to be a result of the systemic inflammation it causes. It can impact various body parts, including the eyes, brain, lungs, heart, stomach, liver, bones, and reproductive organ. Learn more about the health impact of air pollution here.
Clarity’s mission is to empower the world to reduce air pollution by making air quality data accessible, actionable, and affordable. They believe everyone has the right to breathe clean air—and they’re closing the global air quality data gap with IoT-enabled sensors and cloud-based analytics. Their goal: equip cities, industries, and communities with the tools to take meaningful action on air pollution.
Clarity’s end-to-end air quality monitoring solution helps cities and organizations deploy dense sensor networks that supplement sparse regulatory monitors. Real-time data from the Clarity Dashboard helps pinpoint pollution hotspots and guide actions—like clean air zones or traffic interventions. Their scalable, cost-effective approach enables rapid deployments that lead to smarter, data-driven policy.
Clarity has deployed over 10,000 sensors across 250+ cities in 85+ countries (see map). Their systems collect billions of air quality data points in diverse environments—from London to Bishkek to Manila. Their impact spans megacities, island nations, school districts, industrial sites, and more—wherever better air quality data is needed.
Founded in 2014 by UC Berkeley grads, Clarity began as a student-led project focused on solving global air pollution through tech innovation. After early deployments in Mexico and India, the team scaled up a mission-driven company rooted in environmental engineering and data science. Today, they continue to grow globally while staying true to their founding ethos: using technology to improve public health.
Clarity’s culture is built on integrity, curiosity, and impact. Values like “Give & take ownership” and “Stay hungry, stay foolish” reflect a startup mindset committed to continuous learning. Their Data Promise emphasizes transparency, privacy, and user ownership. They aim to empower customers—not just sell to them—and foster an inclusive, mission-driven team environment.
Air quality management is the process of monitoring, understanding, and controlling air pollution to protect public health and the environment. It matters because poor air quality leads to respiratory illness, lost productivity, and long-term environmental harm. Clarity's scalable sensor networks and data tools make it easier for cities to manage air quality proactively, with real-time insights tailored for urban complexity.
Clarity works with governments, community groups, businesses, and research institutions. Cities like Los Angeles and Paris use Clarity to expand regulatory monitoring. NGOs use it for environmental justice. Ports and industrial sites use it for fenceline monitoring. Data is shared via OpenMap, APIs, or dashboards—making air quality transparent and actionable.
They give city leaders the ability to monitor pollution hot spots, identify sources, and evaluate the impact of interventions. Clarity’s solution is especially effective in dense urban environments because of its modular, low-power sensors and cloud-based platform — making it possible to deploy one of the world’s largest hyperlocal air sensor networks quickly and cost-effectively.
Cities typically rely on a mix of low-cost air sensors, satellite data, reference monitors, and cloud-based analytics. Clarity’s system stands out by combining high-accuracy, solar-powered sensors with a full software and service layer that makes it easy for cities to scale networks, ensure data quality, and engage the public with clear insights.
Low-cost sensors vary widely in quality, but Clarity’s sensors are proven to perform with high accuracy when properly calibrated and managed. Our solution includes continuous QA/QC, field validation, and advanced machine learning calibration models, making it a trusted choice for cities around the world to complement their regulatory networks.
Yes — Clarity’s real-time data and customizable alerts allow city managers to react quickly to wildfire smoke, industrial releases, or traffic-related spikes. Because our systems are easy to deploy and maintain, cities can place sensors where they’re needed most, even in underserved areas that traditional monitors miss.
Air quality systems like Clarity’s deliver pollutant concentrations (e.g., PM2.5, NO₂, O₃), temporal trends, geographic maps, and real-time alarms. What sets us apart is the ability to turn this data into actionable insights through intuitive dashboards, public-facing tools, and expert Add-On Services — enabling smarter decisions and more effective pollution reduction strategies.
Air Quality Management 2.0 is Clarity’s modern, data-driven approach to pollution control. Instead of relying solely on a few expensive monitors and top-down regulation, this model empowers cities, communities, scientists, and regulators to collaborate using hyperlocal, real-time air quality data from low-cost sensors. It shifts air quality from reactive to proactive—informing local action, not just national policy.
The most successful programs usually involve:
Low-cost sensor networks are the backbone of Air Quality Management 2.0. They allow dense deployments across neighborhoods, school zones, and industrial corridors—generating real-time data on pollution hot spots that would be missed by sparse government monitors. This granular visibility enables targeted interventions and responsive public health measures.
Each project paired Clarity’s technology with strong local partnerships to drive real improvements.
Engaging local residents ensures that air quality monitoring reflects real-world concerns and drives behavior change. Community members can help identify pollution sources, advocate for cleaner environments, and support policy shifts. By hosting sensors, participating in data collection, or accessing public platforms like OpenMap, they become partners in the process—and amplify the impact.
Organizations have used Clarity’s air pollution monitoring solutions to make informed decisions, increase public awareness, and measure the success of air quality interventions. For instance, Breathe London deployed hundreds of Clarity sensors to monitor hyperlocal pollution levels and shape policy around the city’s Ultra Low Emission Zone. In Metro Manila, data from school- and roadside sensors is helping local governments design more targeted anti-smog campaigns.
Yes — Clarity’s modular approach allows us to tailor deployments for a wide range of needs. For urban agencies, we offer NO₂ and black carbon monitoring to address traffic-related emissions, while construction authorities use our portable sensors to track dust during city development. We’ve also customized sensors for remote integration with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s weather stations in wildfire-prone areas.
Absolutely, see the many case studies on this page for examples. In Bishkek, our sensor network helped city officials and the World Bank identify key districts for a pilot low-emission zone. In London, Clarity data supported the city’s shift to targeted congestion pricing. In California, municipalities used Clarity’s wildfire-calibrated sensors to trigger school closures and air quality alerts more precisely than satellite or reference data alone.
We work closely with city governments, transportation and environment departments, regional air districts, research institutions, and international development agencies. Notable customers include Breathe London, Metro Manila’s DENR-EMB, the Asian Development Bank, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and air quality agencies in California, Colorado, and Mexico City — all of whom rely on Clarity for cost-effective, citywide monitoring.
Clarity regularly publishes press releases and announcements on our Blog, covering product launches, partnerships, and company milestones. For a curated collection of media materials, including press releases and executive bios, visit our Media & Press Kit.
Yes, Clarity provides a comprehensive Press Kit that includes company information, executive bios, product images, and logos. These resources are designed to assist journalists and media professionals in covering Clarity's initiatives and developments.
Journalists seeking interviews or expert commentary can reach out directly via email to marketing@clarity.io. Our media relations team will coordinate to connect you with the appropriate Clarity spokesperson or subject matter expert.
Yes, Clarity's work has been highlighted in various reputable publications and news outlets, reflecting our impact in the field of air quality monitoring. For a selection of media coverage and articles featuring Clarity, please refer to our Media & Press Kit.
For all media inquiries, including requests for additional information or resources, please contact our media relations team at marketing@clarity.io. We are committed to providing timely and accurate information to support your reporting needs.
Clarity’s modular system can monitor a wide range of pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), and black carbon — key indicators of urban air pollution from traffic, industry, and wildfires. Our platform also supports wind and meteorological data to better understand pollution movement and source attribution.
Clarity sensors are designed for rapid, low-effort deployment. They arrive pre-configured and can be installed in under 10 minutes using basic tools. Solar power and cellular connectivity eliminate the need for grid power or Wi-Fi, and the system requires minimal ongoing maintenance thanks to its rugged, weatherproof design.
Yes — Clarity sensors automatically transmit data to the cloud via cellular networks, making it accessible anywhere through the Clarity Dashboard. Users can view live maps, configure alerts, download reports, and even share public data with stakeholders or communities through tools like OpenMap.
Absolutely. Clarity offers optional Add-On Services like Data Analysis reports, as well as ongoing customer success support. Our team can help you make sense of trends, compare your data to regulatory standards, and generate actionable insights for planning, policy, or public communication.
While Clarity is optimized for outdoor air quality monitoring, our customers have occasionally used sensors in semi-enclosed or transitional spaces like parking garages, warehouses, and industrial facilities. However, for strictly indoor applications, we generally recommend dedicated indoor sensors designed for controlled environments.
Clarity’s air quality monitoring network fills critical gaps in traditional regulatory systems, which are often sparse due to cost. While reference monitors provide high-accuracy data at a few fixed locations, Clarity sensors can be deployed at scale, offering hyperlocal insight at street level—near schools, traffic corridors, or underserved communities.
The calibrated data from Clarity Node-S air quality sensors integrates seamlessly with regulatory data, enhancing resolution and enabling real-time alerts for pollution events like wildfires or industrial spikes. Clarity also supports OpenMap, which can combine official and supplemental sensor data into a single public or agency-facing view.
Cities like London have adopted this hybrid model—pairing a few reference stations with many low-cost Clarity nodes to build a more responsive, community-scale air monitoring network.In short, regulatory monitors establish the baseline; Clarity provides the resolution and reach needed for targeted public health action.
Clarity’s Node-S air quality sensors serves as a platform that supports a suite of modular sensors, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), black carbon, and wind speed and direction. This modular system allows cities and organizations to customize deployments for different use cases — from roadside traffic monitoring to wildfire smoke detection — without needing to replace the base sensor unit.
Clarity’s hardware is designed for low-touch operation, with automated QA/QC checks and over-the-air firmware updates. While frequent manual calibration is not required, initial collocation with a reference-grade monitor is recommended for optimal accuracy. Clarity also offers Project Support Services including field validation and recalibration to ensure data reliability over time.
Clarity’s outdoor air quality monitors are built to last 3–5 years or longer, depending on the deployment environment and conditions. The rugged, weatherproof design combined with solar power and cellular connectivity ensures long-term, reliable performance — even in harsh conditions. Plus, the modularity of the system allows for cost-effective upgrades or sensor replacements without full unit swaps. Our warranty provides free replacements under warranty for the duration of your subscription.
No fixed internet or Wi-Fi connection is needed. Each Node-S air pollution sensor is equipped with integrated cellular connectivity, allowing it to transmit air quality data directly to the Clarity Dashboard. This makes our system especially well-suited for distributed, remote, or mobile deployments where traditional network infrastructure may not be available.
Clarity Node-S air quality sensors are built for year-round outdoor durability. They’re weatherproof, UV-resistant, and field-tested in snow, heat, rain, and tropical humidity. Maintenance is minimal — occasional cleaning of the solar panel and exterior may be needed, and sensor modules are hot-swappable if performance ever degrades. Most customers operate sensors for years with little to no intervention, and remote monitoring ensures potential issues are flagged early.
Deployment is simple and fast — Node-S air quality monitors can be installed in under 10 minutes per location using standard brackets or zip ties. Solar-powered and cellular-connected, the sensors require no external power or internet. Many cities have deployed 100+ devices in days — like RAC’s network in Western Australia.
The core Clarity Node-S air pollution sensor measures particulate matter (like PM₂.₅) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in real timeclarity.io. It also serves as a modular platform – you can attach specialized Clarity modules to measure additional parameters. For instance, Clarity offers a Wind & Meteorological Module (for wind speed, direction, temperature, humidity, and pressure), a Black Carbon Module (to differentiate black carbon soot from other PM), a Multi-Gas Module (for gases like CO, O₃, NO, NO₂, and NOx), and a FEM Ozone Module. These modules snap on in seconds and integrate seamlessly. In summary, a fully equipped Clarity Node-S can monitor a wide range of common ambient pollutants – fine particulates, gaseous pollutants, plus weather conditions – giving you a comprehensive view of air quality.
While FRM/FEM monitors provide gold-standard measurements, they’re expensive, complex, and sparse. Clarity’s low-cost sensors are easier to deploy, solar-powered, and cloud-connected — ideal for dense monitoring networks. When calibrated, they provide decision-grade data suitable for public health decisions, supplementing traditional infrastructure.
Yes, Clarity’s sensors have undergone multiple third-party evaluations and achieved certifications, indicating their performance meets certain standards. For example, the Clarity Node-S air quality sensor has been evaluated by the South Coast AQMD’s AQ-SPEC lab in California – a well-known independent test for low-cost sensors. The results of such evaluations showed that the Node-S air pollution sensors correlate well with reference monitors under various conditions. Another strong validation: the Clarity Node-S with appropriate configuration obtained UK-MCERTS certification (certifying it for indicative ambient monitoring in the UK, including use of solar power). MCERTS is a rigorous certification; obtaining it means the device passed performance criteria for accuracy, reliability, and data availability under UK-EU guidelines. Additionally, an evaluation by the San Joaquin Valley Air District (California) gave positive marks to Clarity sensors, and Clarity’s tech won an AIRLAB Microsensors Challenge in 2018 in France, further demonstrating credibility.
The Clarity Cloud is the backbone of Clarity’s air quality monitoring system. It securely receives data from your sensors, applies real-time calibration, stores it, and makes it accessible through tools like the Dashboard and Air Monitoring API. With no servers to manage, the Cloud handles everything from QA/QC to data visualization.
Clarity follows a strict Data Promise: you own your data, and it’s protected with enterprise-grade encryption, secure cloud hosting on AWS, and authenticated access. Your data stays private unless you choose to share it.
Yes. The Cloud automatically applies global or local calibration models to raw sensor data for pollutants like PM₂.₅ and NO₂. It also performs real-time QA/QC, filtering out anomalies and ensuring decision-grade accuracy.
Absolutely. You can publish data through OpenMap, share read-only access, or pull data via Clarity’s Open Data API. Many cities use the API to feed data into public dashboards or alert systems.
Yes – the Air Quality Alarms feature allows you to set custom thresholds and receive automated email alerts when pollutant levels exceed safe limits.
Yes. You can download sensor data from the Dashboard in formats like CSV or Excel, or access it via API for research, compliance, or reporting.
You do. Clarity makes it clear that sensor data belongs to the customer. The platform exists to manage and protect your data—not to claim ownership over it.
A cloud-first approach means no on-premise IT, instant scalability, global accessibility, and always up-to-date algorithms. Cloud deployment enables collaboration, automated updates (e.g. new wildfire calibrations), seamless API integrations, and robust backup—all without added infrastructure.
You can view data through the Clarity Dashboard, download it, stream it via the Air Monitoring API, or publish it to OpenMap. Data is always accessible remotely, in real time.
Clarity provides comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle — from planning and deployment to calibration, data validation, and public engagement. Our Project Support Services include expert guidance on siting, installation, QA/QC, and data interpretation to ensure your monitoring network is effective and impactful.
Yes — our team works closely with you during the early stages of deployment to provide tailored recommendations for sensor siting, power options, and network design. This planning support is based on best practices from hundreds of deployments in cities, industrial sites, and rural regions across 85+ countries.
Absolutely. Clarity offers ongoing technical support as part of our Sensing-as-a-Service model. Customers receive access to system diagnostics, firmware updates, and expert assistance via our support team to ensure their network continues to deliver accurate, actionable data.
Clarity is known for responsive and knowledgeable support. Most inquiries are addressed within one business day, and our Customer Success team provides direct access to product experts who can troubleshoot hardware, software, or data-related issues quickly and effectively.
Basic deployment and technical support are included in Clarity’s standard offering. Additional services — such as calibration consulting, field validation, and advanced data analysis — are available as optional Add-On Services for customers seeking deeper insights or expanded project support.
Yes — Clarity offers training resources through our Air Sensor Bootcamp, which provides step-by-step guidance on sensor deployment, data interpretation, and network management. We also provide custom onboarding and direct support for teams with specific project goals or technical requirements.
The Clarity Node-S measures PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). It also supports a variety of Add-On Modules to measure ozone (O₃), PM10, carbon monoxide (CO), and black carbon — all key pollutants linked to traffic, industrial emissions, and wildfire smoke. It can also integrate wind and meteorological modules for enhanced analysis of pollutant movement and dispersion.
While not a regulatory-grade monitor, the Node-S delivers high-quality, actionable data when calibrated and quality-assured properly. It has undergone colocation testing alongside federal reference monitors in projects across California, Oregon, and Europe, demonstrating strong correlation and performance in both stable and dynamic air quality conditions.
Yes — the Node-S air quality sensor is designed to perform well in a wide range of settings. Its solar power and cellular connectivity make it ideal for rural and remote deployments, while its modularity and small footprint make it equally effective in dense urban environments, where it can monitor hyperlocal variations in pollution.
Absolutely. The Node-S air pollution sensor features a rugged, weatherproof housing (IPX3 rated) and can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -10°C to 55°C. It has been successfully deployed in environments ranging from tropical Southeast Asia to high-altitude regions of Central Asia, as well as wildfire-affected zones in the Western U.S.
Node-S air quality sensors transmit air quality data via built-in cellular connectivity, eliminating the need for external internet or power infrastructure. The data is sent securely to the Clarity Dashboard, where users can view real-time maps, configure alerts, download reports, and share data with stakeholders.
The Node-S air pollution sensor is low-maintenance by design. Routine operation requires minimal physical upkeep, and calibration is handled through Clarity’s automated QA/QC and optional Project Support Services. For optimal accuracy, we recommend initial colocation and periodic field validation depending on project goals.
We are the only air quality measurement provider that offers out-of-the-box solar and battery-powered hardware to make deployment truly scalable and frictionless. Our solution requires a single hour of direct sunlight per day on average for steady-state operation, and can operate for up to 30 days with no sunlight at all. To deal with extreme conditions, the devices are able to detect decreasing power availability autonomously and to gradually slow down sampling (until total “hibernation” if needed) to preserve power, avoid damaging the battery, and go through rare stretches of prolonged periods without sunlight, maintaining the measurement coverage as uniform as possible. Once power availability is back to sustainable levels, the devices come back to default operation without need for intervention.
The Clarity Node-S is designed to operate in the field for at least 2 years without the need for any maintenance intervention, but in practice, we have seen them run without problems for many years. Our device comprises a main weatherproof enclosure and a sensor module housed inside the main enclosure while interfacing with the ambient air. The sensor module is able to draw in air while keeping the main enclosure isolated from the sample and thus from dust and moisture. The resulting assembly has a combined ingress protection rating of IPX3, while all the componentry, excluding the sensor module,e is kept at an ingress protection rating of IP67. We offer free replacement with a limited warranty of our Node-S air quality monitoring hardware for subscribed members.
The Node-S air quality sensor has been designed to perform in different weathers and is able to resist extreme weather events such as sandstorms, snowstorms, and strong winds. Clarity’s Node-S devices can operate in remote environments where sandstorms may be more common, and can also do so without a hardwired power connection or WiFi connectivity, which may not be available in the area where air quality must be measured.
Optical sensing is a methodology to measure pollutants by detecting light intensity. It is an electronic detector that converts light into an electronic signal. For example, when a particle present in the air crosses the laser beam, it is illuminated and it scatters light. The photodiode receives the scattered light, and the signal reads high and therefore indicating its presence.
The Clarity Wind Module measures two key meteorological parameters: wind speed and wind direction, as well as atmospheric pressure. This information is essential for understanding how pollutants disperse through the atmosphere and helps identify likely emission sources and transport patterns in both urban and remote settings.
Wind data provides crucial context for interpreting pollution events. By understanding which direction the wind is blowing from — and how fast — users can better trace pollution back to its source, identify affected areas, and improve air quality modeling. It also enhances the impact of time-series and spatial analysis for policy-making and emergency response.
Yes — the Wind Module is fully compatible with the Node-S platform. It connects seamlessly through Clarity’s modular interface, enabling plug-and-play integration without requiring complex setup or changes to the core system.
The Wind Module is powered by the same solar and battery system as the Node-S air pollution sensor. It connects via a direct cable interface, drawing power and syncing data through the existing communications system. This allows for fully wireless, solar-powered deployment without additional infrastructure.
Yes — the Wind Module is designed to perform reliably in a wide range of wind conditions, including environments with highly variable or gusty winds. Its robust sensors provide stable, real-time data that complements air pollution measurements in locations where wind-driven dispersion is a major factor.
No routine calibration is required for the Wind Module. It uses pre-calibrated sensors and is designed for low-maintenance field use. As with all Clarity components, performance is monitored remotely, and optional Project Support Services are available for customers who need assistance with QA/QC or troubleshooting.
The Clarity FEM Ozone Module is used for high-accuracy, regulatory-grade measurement of ambient ozone (O₃) concentrations. It enables agencies and researchers to collect defensible data for compliance reporting, community exposure studies, and ozone pollution control strategies — particularly where cost or infrastructure limits access to traditional regulatory monitors.
Yes — the Clarity FEM Ozone Module includes a Federal Equivalent Method (FEM)-designated ozone analyzer, meaning it meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for ambient ozone monitoring when operated according to EPA guidelines. This makes it suitable for use in regulatory networks, as well as supplemental and informational monitoring programs requiring high confidence in ozone data.
Unlike low-cost electrochemical ozone sensors, the FEM Ozone Module uses UV photometry — the EPA’s reference method for ozone detection. This technology offers superior precision, long-term stability, and much lower susceptibility to cross-sensitivity or environmental interference, making it a trusted solution for compliance-grade monitoring.
While the FEM Ozone Module is more robust than low-cost alternatives, it does require periodic service like zero/span checks and filter replacement to maintain its regulatory-grade accuracy. Clarity provides recommended maintenance intervals and optional Project Support Services to assist customers with calibration, QA/QC, and field servicing as needed.
Yes — the FEM Ozone Module can be deployed in parallel with other Node-S Add-On Modules, including PM, NO₂, and wind sensors. While it cannot be powered by the Node-S air quality sensor due to power requirements, it integrates into the broader Clarity ecosystem for unified data access, visualization, and analysis via the Clarity Dashboard. We offer an external power solution with a solar power and battery backup for remote, off-grid monitoring.
Ozone monitoring is especially important in urban areas with high vehicle or industrial emissions, as well as regions prone to photochemical smog formation during hot, sunny weather. It’s also critical in rural downwind locations affected by regional ozone transport. Environmental agencies use ozone data to issue public health advisories, track attainment of air quality standards, and evaluate the success of emissions reduction programs.
Black carbon is a short-lived climate pollutant and a component of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that results from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, and biomass. Monitoring black carbon is critical because it contributes to both climate change and public health impacts — especially in urban areas, transportation corridors, and regions relying on solid fuel. It’s also a key indicator of traffic-related air pollution and diesel emissions.
Major sources of black carbon include diesel engine exhaust, wood and biomass burning, coal combustion, and open waste burning. In cities, traffic — particularly from older diesel vehicles — is a dominant contributor. In developing regions, household fuel use and agricultural fires can be major sources of black carbon exposure.
The Clarity Black Carbon Module uses an optical absorption method to detect black carbon particles based on how they absorb light. This technique provides accurate, near real-time measurements of black carbon concentrations and is well-suited for continuous outdoor monitoring, even in resource-constrained settings.
Yes — the Black Carbon Module is designed to be seamlessly integrated with Clarity’s Node-S platform. It connects via the same modular system and shares power, connectivity, and cloud-based data delivery, making it easy to upgrade an existing Clarity deployment without adding significant complexity.
Black carbon monitoring is particularly valuable in densely populated urban areas, transportation corridors, port cities, and industrial zones. It's also essential in regions tackling diesel emissions, designing low-emission zones, or addressing climate-related impacts of air pollution. Cities like London and Bishkek have used black carbon data from Clarity sensors to shape traffic policy and identify emission hotspots.
Yes — data from the Black Carbon Module is transmitted in near real time to the Clarity Dashboard, where users can visualize trends, generate reports, and set alerts. This immediate access supports timely decision-making for air quality interventions, community engagement, and regulatory reporting.
The Clarity Multi-Gas Module is designed to detect a configurable set of gases depending on your project needs. Common options include nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O₃). This allows for targeted monitoring of pollutants from traffic, industry, and combustion sources.
Yes — the Multi-Gas Module is modular by design. Customers can select specific gases to monitor based on local emission sources, regulatory requirements, or community health concerns. This flexibility makes it ideal for both research-driven deployments and operational air quality management programs.
The Multi-Gas Module enhances Clarity deployments by adding gaseous pollutant data to existing PM or black carbon measurements. When paired with the Node-S, it helps build a fuller picture of air quality by capturing both particle and gas-phase pollutants, enabling better source attribution and response planning.
Industries such as transportation, mining, oil and gas, utilities, and manufacturing use multigas monitoring to track emissions and protect worker and community health. Urban planning agencies and environmental regulators also rely on multi-gas data to inform clean air policies and evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation strategies.
While the Multi-Gas Module is rugged and weatherproof, it is designed for ambient outdoor monitoring — not for hazardous confined spaces or explosive-risk industrial environments. For those settings, intrinsically safe equipment may be required. That said, the module performs well for perimeter monitoring or fenceline applications in industrial zones.
We recommend periodic recalibration depending on pollutant type, deployment conditions, and data accuracy requirements. Clarity offers optional Calibration and Validation Services and automated QA/QC workflows to help maintain reliable performance over time. Note that collocation is currently required for the Multi-Gas Module.
The Clarity Dashboard is a secure, cloud-based platform where users can view and manage air quality data from their Clarity sensors. It serves as the central hub for your monitoring network, offering interactive maps, charts, sensor diagnostics, and reporting tools — all in one place. Whether you're monitoring a single location or a citywide network, the Dashboard makes it easy to access real-time insights and manage your deployment.
Yes — the Dashboard is designed to be intuitive and accessible to everyone, regardless of technical background. Clear visuals, color-coded maps, simple graphs, and built-in guidance make it easy to understand air quality conditions, track changes, and share insights with stakeholders or the public.
Absolutely. The Dashboard allows you to monitor all your sensors from a single interface, whether you have just a few or hundreds of devices deployed. You can group sensors by location or project, compare readings across sites, and get a comprehensive overview of your entire network in real time.
You can track pollutant concentrations (like PM2.5, NO₂, and ozone), analyze trends over time, compare data across locations, and detect pollution spikes as they happen. The Dashboard also gives visibility into sensor health, battery status, and network connectivity, so you’re always in control of both your data and devices.
Yes — you can set up custom alerts based on pollutant thresholds or device status (e.g., low battery or data gaps), and receive notifications via email. You can also generate downloadable reports and visual summaries for internal use or stakeholder engagement, all without needing external tools.
Yes — historical data is stored and accessible through the Clarity Dashboard, allowing you to review past pollution events, compare seasonal patterns, and generate long-term trend reports. You can filter by date range, site, or pollutant and export raw data as CSV files when needed.
With features like real-time color-coded maps, drag-and-drop time comparisons, and instant summaries, the Clarity Dashboard transforms complex data into simple visuals. It eliminates the need for external software or coding by offering built-in tools for filtering, averaging, and exporting data directly.
Definitely. The Clarity Dashboard supports multi-user access with role-based permissions. You can invite colleagues, researchers, or partners and assign different access levels — from full admin rights to read-only views — to fit your collaboration needs.
Clarity sensors use built-in cellular connectivity to transmit data to the cloud in near real time — typically within seconds to a minute. There’s no need for Wi-Fi or local networks. Once the data is received and processed, it appears instantly on the Clarity Dashboard for viewing and analysis.
You can view live status updates for each sensor, including battery level, solar charging, and connectivity. The Clarity Dashboard highlights any devices that go offline or need attention, and you can configure alerts for maintenance or unusual data behavior. Built-in QA/QC tools help you ensure your data remains accurate.
No — the Clarity Dashboard is included in the Sensing-as-a-Service subscription. There are no extra fees for software, cellular data, or storage. Everything is hosted in the cloud, updated automatically, and accessible through any modern web browser.
Clarity OpenMap is a public, interactive map that displays real-time air quality data from Clarity’s sensor networks and regulatory monitors. Anyone with internet access can use it — no login or special software required. It's designed to make air pollution data transparent and accessible for communities, researchers, and policymakers.
OpenMap shows real-time concentrations of pollutants like PM₂.₅ and corresponding Air Quality Index (AQI) values. Data comes from calibrated Clarity sensors and verified regulatory monitoring stations. Each source is clearly labeled so users can understand where the data is coming from and how it’s been processed.
Yes — OpenMap is global in scope and continuously updates with near real-time data from active Clarity deployments and select official monitors. Whether you're checking air quality in your neighborhood or another city across the world, OpenMap provides a live snapshot of pollution conditions.
Data on OpenMap is typically updated every hour using Clarity’s NowCast AQI methodology. Clarity sensor data is calibrated and quality-assured, and any third-party data is vetted before inclusion. This ensures the platform delivers highly reliable information that communities can trust.
OpenMap uses the U.S. EPA’s NowCast algorithm to convert hourly PM₂.₅ measurements into AQI values, updating the map with clear color codes (green to maroon) to show air quality conditions. This helps users interpret complex pollutant data with simple, health-relevant guidance.
Publishing data on OpenMap helps build public trust, supports transparency, and promotes community awareness. It also gives cities and organizations a professional, ready-made platform to share data with residents without needing to build their own tools, making it easy to engage the public during events like wildfire smoke or high pollution days.
Yes — organizations that use Clarity’s sensors can embed a live version of OpenMap on their own website to publicly share their air quality data. This is a popular feature for cities, schools, and environmental programs aiming to boost visibility and public education.
OpenMap is completely free and accessible through any modern web browser — no downloads or installations required. It’s mobile-friendly and works just like a typical web map, so users can easily pan, zoom, and click on sensors to view air quality trends in their area.
Low-cost sensors, like those in the Clarity Node-S, require calibration because they can be affected by environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and particle type. For example, particulate sensors estimate PM₂.₅ using light scattering—not direct mass—so readings can vary with smoke or dust type. Similarly, electrochemical gas sensors can drift over time or react to multiple gases. Clarity corrects for these factors by calibrating sensors against regulatory monitors, ensuring you get decision-grade data suitable for health advisories and public communication.
Clarity uses a multi-step calibration process. This approach ensures high correlation between sensor readings and reference-grade data—even during extreme events like wildfires:
Calibration is included as part of Clarity’s Sensing-as-a-Service model. Both global and local calibration support are covered, along with access to tools like Accuracy Reporting and optional QA/QC services for long-term data reliability.
Calibration is not just a one-time event for Clarity sensors – it’s an ongoing process. With Remote Calibration, the applied calibration factors can be updated whenever needed. Many users note that the data quality remains high over multi-year deployments, which is because Clarity monitors and updates calibration as required. It’s not something you have to schedule or pay extra for each time – it’s part of the service. In summary, initial calibration is done at deployment, and after that Clarity ensures calibrations are maintained and refreshed regularly (quietly in the background via the cloud) so the data doesn’t degrade over time.
Clarity strives to meet the data quality objectives set by agencies like the US EPA for sensors and indicative monitoring. They do this through a combination of calibration (as we discussed) and rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) protocols. For instance, Clarity will perform collocation validation whenever possible: if you have a reference station in your project area, they’ll compare the Node-S air quality data to that station and compute performance metrics such as R² (correlation), mean bias, RMSE, etc. The Clarity Dashboard even has an Accuracy Reporting feature specifically for collocated device evaluation, showing metrics like R² and MAE (Mean Absolute Error) to quantify accuracy. If those metrics fall outside acceptable bounds (for example, EPA’s guidelines might be that sensor data should be within ±~5 µg/m³ or 20% of FEM readings for PM₂.₅, and Clarity will aim for that), they will investigate and recalibrate or service the sensor.
Furthermore, Clarity references third-party evaluations: by undergoing testing at places like AQ-SPEC and obtaining MCERTS, they’ve demonstrated that under those test conditions, Node-S data can meet certain performance criteria. For example, MCERTS certification indicates that the Node-S (with correct calibration) met defined accuracy and precision targets for indicative monitoring. Clarity uses those evaluations to refine their process as well, essentially benchmarking against regulatory standards. They also incorporate EPA’s performance targets for sensors (like those published in the U.S. for grant programs) into their QA. On their calibration page they note striving to meet US EPA, EU, UK MCERTS, etc., performance targets wherever possible clarity.io.
Clarity offers a range of Add-On Services to help you maximize the impact of your air quality monitoring program. These include expert-led Data Analysis reports, project planning and siting support, sensor QA/QC assistance, and stakeholder-ready reporting. Services are designed to turn raw data into actionable insights.
Yes—Clarity’s Add-On Services can be added at any time during your deployment. Whether you need analysis mid-project or support during a new phase (e.g. wildfire season), our flexible service model lets you scale your support as needs evolve.
Absolutely. Clarity tailors services based on your goals—whether you’re a environmental agency, school district, or industrial site. You’ll collaborate with our team to determine what kind of insights, timelines, and deliverables are most helpful to your project.
Add-On Services turn data into decisions. By layering expert analysis and technical support on top of sensor data from the Node-S air pollution monitor, Clarity ensures you can spot trends, meet reporting requirements, and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders—whether that's a local community, health department, or board of directors.
Yes, Add-On Services often include Project Support, which provides ongoing access to Clarity’s air quality and sensor deployment experts. This helps ensure your network remains high-performing and your team is supported with guidance on QA/QC, troubleshooting, and optimal data use.
No long-term commitment is required. Clarity offers flexible engagement options, allowing you to select one-time, seasonal, or ongoing support depending on your goals and budget. This makes it easy to scale services up or down as your project evolves.
Clarity’s Add-On Services include expert-led data analysis that transforms raw air quality data into actionable insights. These reports highlight pollution patterns, identify exceedances, summarize health-relevant trends (e.g., PM₂.₅ or NO₂ spikes), and provide recommendations tailored to your monitoring goals.
Yes—Clarity’s analysts can surface long-term patterns, seasonal variations, or source-driven anomalies using data from your Node-S air quality sensors. Our reports help you understand not just what the data says, but why pollution levels change—providing valuable context for decision-making, public reporting, or advocacy.
Not at all. Our Data Analysis reports are designed for clarity and accessibility, with clear visuals, plain-language summaries, and key takeaways that make findings easy to digest for all audiences—including public health officials, educators, and community members.
Yes—Clarity customizes reporting for each customer based on their sector and objectives. Whether you’re a city government, school district, industrial site, or construction firm, we tailor the insights to match your compliance, education, or operational needs.
Clarity offers flexible reporting schedules—monthly, quarterly, or aligned to specific project phases—depending on your subscription and needs. Some customers request reports during wildfire season or construction milestones, while others prefer regular trend tracking.
Yes—while Clarity’s system is often used for supplemental monitoring, our analysis can support regulatory processes by documenting exceedances, validating sensor performance (via collocation), and aligning data with standards like the EPA’s AQI or EU directives. Many air quality agencies use these insights to inform air quality strategies or support reporting requirements.
Air quality data empowers communities to make pollution visible, identify local pollution sources, and demand action from policymakers. With Clarity’s real-time Dashboard, OpenMap, and Air Quality Alarms, communities can show when and where unhealthy air is affecting residents—providing clear evidence to support campaigns for cleaner transportation, zoning changes, or emissions controls.
Clarity offers tailored Project Support Services to help grassroots groups with sensor siting, deployment, data interpretation, and public engagement. We’ve worked with NGOs, schools, and local coalitions to launch monitoring projects that drive awareness and local action. Our team helps ensure that data collection is accessible and meaningful, even for non-technical users.
Yes—Clarity’s Sensing-as-a-Service model offers flexible, subscription-based pricing that makes professional-grade monitoring accessible without major upfront costs. Our solar-powered, plug-and-play Node-S air pollution sensors are easy to install and maintain, reducing the need for technical expertise or infrastructure investment.
Absolutely. Many frontline communities face disproportionately high air pollution but lack monitoring infrastructure. Clarity’s hyperlocal data can expose pollution hotspots and demonstrate disparities in air quality, providing a foundation for environmental justice advocacy. Community organizations often use our data to bring attention to overlooked neighborhoods and secure funding or policy change.
Yes—groups like Brightline Defense in San Francisco have used Clarity sensors to monitor air quality in low-income housing during wildfire season, informing public health interventions. In the Breathe London project, sensors were deployed around schools and underserved areas to provide data for community-led clean air campaigns. These projects show how trusted, localized data can elevate community voices and drive impact.
Clarity’s solution complements regulatory monitoring by filling spatial data gaps with a dense, high-resolution network of calibrated sensors. Our Node-S air quality monitoring devices and Add-On Modules offer measurements of key pollutants like PM₂.₅, NO₂, O₃, and black carbon, enabling agencies to track pollution trends in underserved or high-risk areas. Clarity also supports collocation and calibration with reference monitors to ensure data is reliable for supplemental monitoring applications.
Clarity’s data is ideal for non-regulatory supplemental monitoring (NSIM), community exposure assessments, and environmental justice reporting. While not a direct substitute for FRM/FEM instruments, Clarity’s FEM Ozone Module is EPA-designated, and our Node-S air quality sensor has been accepted for use on the EPA Fire & Smoke Map, demonstrating the reliability of our calibrated sensor data for government use.
Accuracy is maintained through a combination of global and local calibration models, continuous QA/QC, and performance benchmarking. Clarity sensors are regularly collocated with regulatory monitors during deployment to validate performance. We also offer Add-On Services like calibration reviews, accuracy reporting, and data validation to support decision-grade measurements.
Yes. Clarity’s cloud-based platform includes a robust, open API that allows agencies to integrate air quality data into internal dashboards, GIS platforms, or public portals. Many government users have successfully connected Clarity data to ArcGIS, Open Data platforms, and third-party health dashboards.
Absolutely. The plug-and-play nature of Clarity’s sensors—solar-powered, cellular-connected, and modular—makes it easy to scale deployments citywide or regionally. For example, Breathe London deployed 135+ sensors across the city to monitor pollution in neighborhoods, around schools, and near transportation corridors.
Clarity provides comprehensive support through our Project Support Services, including assistance with sensor siting, deployment, data QA/QC, stakeholder reporting, and regulatory engagement. Government partners also have access to onboarding, training, and ongoing technical support from our expert air quality team.
Clarity’s modular platform supports the monitoring of PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, NO₂, O₃, black carbon, and a range of gases via the Multi-Gas Module, including CO and VOCs. This flexibility allows agencies to tailor deployments to local air quality priorities—from traffic emissions to wildfire smoke or industrial pollutants.
Environmental agencies use real-time sensor data from Clarity to trigger public alerts, shape pollution mitigation policies, and prioritize health interventions in high-risk communities. Tools like Air Quality Alarms and OpenMap provide actionable insights that help public health departments and emergency responders protect vulnerable populations during events like wildfires, dust storms, or high-traffic days.
Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution, which can trigger asthma, impair lung development, and affect cognitive performance. Monitoring air quality on school campuses helps districts protect student health, make informed decisions about outdoor activities, and build community trust. Learn more in our school air quality solutions overview.
Yes. The Clarity Node-S air quality sensor is solar-powered, low-profile, and weatherproof—ideal for unobtrusive installation on rooftops, fences, or poles. It operates without needing on-site power or internet, making it safe and easy to deploy on school campuses.
Districts use real-time data to make daily decisions about recess, athletic practices, or HVAC usage. Over time, the data helps identify pollution trends and guide infrastructure upgrades or traffic mitigation near schools. Data is visualized via the Clarity Dashboard and can be shared publicly with parents.
Absolutely. The Clarity Dashboard is designed to be intuitive for non-technical users, with color-coded AQI indicators, maps, and simple charts. School staff can quickly assess current conditions, set alert thresholds, and download reports—no data science degree required.
Yes. Schools can configure Air Quality Alarms to receive email or SMS alerts when pollution exceeds defined thresholds, such as during wildfire smoke or high-traffic hours. Alerts help staff take timely actions like moving recess indoors or notifying families.
Yes. For example, Adams County, Colorado partnered with Clarity to install sensors at schools through the "Love My Air" program. These installations provided local data for environmental education and supported EPA-funded community health initiatives.
Air quality data can be a powerful STEM teaching tool. Students can explore pollution trends, analyze patterns during wildfires or rush hour, and even conduct their own experiments. Clarity’s public-facing OpenMap makes it easy for classrooms to access and engage with local environmental data.
Clarity’s modular sensor network delivers real-time measurements of key pollutants like PM₁₀, PM₂.₅ NO₂, O₃, and black carbon. Industrial sites use this data to track emissions, identify pollution hotspots, and make operational changes to reduce exposure and comply with air quality goals. Our Add-On Services also help facilities translate data into actionable mitigation strategies.
While Clarity sensors are not federal reference methods (FRM/FEM), they are designed to meet regulatory-grade data performance targets through continuous calibration and rigorous QA/QC. Our Black Carbon Module and FEM Ozone Module offer additional options for compliance-focused monitoring.
Construction and demolition can generate high levels of PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅, impacting nearby communities and violating environmental regulations. Monitoring helps ensure worker and public safety, supports regulatory compliance, and reduces legal or reputational risks for site operators.
Yes. Clarity’s Dust Monitoring Solution accurately measures PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅, the primary pollutants from construction dust. Our modular air quality monitoring platform supports add-ons like the Dust Module for targeted monitoring.
Clarity’s sensors are portable, solar-powered, and cellular-connected, enabling deployment in minutes without external power or Wi-Fi. This makes them ideal for short-term construction projects or pop-up monitoring during demolition.
Yes. The Clarity Dashboard includes downloadable reports, trend analysis, and historical data to support local compliance requirements. Our Add-On Services team can also assist with data interpretation and customized reporting for regulators.
Absolutely. Clarity offers real-time alarms and email notifications for pollutant exceedances. These customizable alerts help project managers respond quickly to air quality issues and minimize health risks or potential violations.
Wildfire smoke contains high concentrations of PM₂.₅ that can cause serious respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Real-time air quality monitoring is essential to protect public health during wildfire events, enabling timely alerts, evacuations, and clean air interventions. Learn more in our Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality blog.
Yes. Clarity sensors measure PM₂.₅ and other pollutants associated with wildfire smoke. Our wildfire-specific calibration model adjusts readings during smoke-heavy events, improving accuracy even in extreme pollution scenarios.
During fires, air quality can change by the hour. Monitoring allows air quality agencies to issue targeted health warnings, protect vulnerable populations, and assess the effectiveness of response actions. Clarity’s solar-powered, cellular-connected sensors continue operating even when infrastructure fails.
Fixed monitors rely on electricity and internet, which often fail during wildfires. They’re also too sparse to detect hyperlocal variations. Clarity’s low-cost, resilient sensors fill critical gaps, providing reliable data when it’s needed most.
Clarity Movement Co. is an environmental technology company providing a complete Sensing-as-a-Service solution for ambient air quality monitoring.Clarity’s solar-powered Node-S air quality sensors can be rapidly deployed and begin transmitting real-time data via cellular networks immediately. This flexibility enables localized air quality alerts, supports public health messaging, and helps prioritize response efforts. Explore our wildfire response capabilities. Their offering includes solar-powered Node-S air quality sensors, a cloud-based data platform, and expert support—empowering governments, businesses, schools, and communities to measure air pollution reliably and affordably.
Clarity sensors can be installed and operational within hours. They’re lightweight, plug-and-play, and don’t require external power or Wi-Fi, making them ideal for emergency deployments. Pre-positioned kits allow for rapid response in fire-prone regions.
Yes. Boulder County used 22 Node-S monitors after the Marshall Fire to track PM₂.₅ levels and inform recovery plans. Nonprofits in San Francisco have also used Clarity sensors to protect vulnerable populations during wildfire smoke events.
Standard optical sensors can overestimate PM₂.₅ during dense smoke. To improve accuracy during smoke-heavy conditions, Clarity created a wildfire-season calibration model based on multi-year collocation data. It corrects overestimation tendencies common in optical sensors during intense smoke events.
It’s automatically applied in the Clarity Cloud, requiring no user action. Sensors send raw data to the cloud, where calibration is processed before display—ensuring real-time, accurate results during wildfire events.
Clarity regularly updates its calibration models using collocation data from sensors placed near reference monitors worldwide. This ongoing process ensures models remain accurate for smoke and other pollution events. Read about our v2.1 global calibration for more detail.
The C40 Breathe Cities initiative aims to accelerate clean air action in cities around the world by providing funding, technology, and technical support to measure air pollution and implement data-driven policy solutions. The program focuses on reducing exposure to air pollution and advancing environmental justice in communities most impacted by poor air quality.
Clarity is a key technology partner in a variety of Breathe Cities projects, providing Sensing-as-a-Service solutions that include solar-powered air quality sensors, cloud-based data platforms, and expert project support. Our technology is currently deployed in Breathe Cities like London, Accra, and Jakarta, helping local governments and stakeholders gain real-time insights to support air quality interventions. Learn more in our post on Breathe Accra.
Cities participating in the program collect high-resolution data on pollutants such as PM₂.₅ and NO₂, using Clarity’s Node-S sensors. Some cities also integrate Multi-Gas Modules or Black Carbon Modules to capture additional emissions. This granular data helps cities understand hyperlocal pollution patterns and identify sources of pollution in real time.
City governments use the air quality data from Breathe Cities deployments to shape evidence-based policies, such as emission zones, traffic management, and health advisories. In Jakarta, for example, the data is being used to support low-emission transport planning and public health outreach. By visualizing data with tools like Clarity OpenMap, cities can also engage communities and increase accountability for clean air efforts.
Yes — while the initial cohort of Breathe Cities was selected by C40, the model is replicable by any city or organization seeking to address air pollution with data-driven action. Clarity provides scalable sensor networks, advisory services, and open-data platforms that make it easier for other cities to launch similar initiatives. To explore building a solution like Breathe Cities in your region, visit Build Your Solution.