Summary
The goal of Pollen Watch is to tackle pollen allergies with citizen science: A fresh approach to climate change and health.
Scope
To better combat the effects of climate change on our health and communities, we need a more inclusive and participatory science—one that brings together diverse voices and empowers citizens to actively engage in research.
Pollen allergies, a growing issue in Switzerland due to rising global temperatures and increased pollen levels, affect countless individuals. Understanding and mitigating this challenge requires mapping the distribution of airborne pollen and its triggers. Key questions include:
- How do pollen levels differ between urban and rural areas?
- What role do seasons, rainfall, and heat waves play?
- How do human activities contribute to high pollen dispersion?
- How does commuting (e.g., biking, walking, driving) influence exposure?
While advanced equipment is used to monitor pollen in Switzerland, it doesn’t capture the full picture of regional patterns or individual exposure. That’s where citizen science comes in.
This project invites everyday people to use sensors to monitor air quality and pollen concentrations, helping researchers map hotspots with greater precision. Through workshops, citizen scientists will not only learn how to collect data but also co-develop research questions, making the process more collaborative and impactful.
By involving the public in every step, this initiative aims to:
- Advance understanding of pollen-related allergies.
- Improve air quality monitoring strategies.
- Raise awareness and inspire behavior changes.
Together, we can make science more accessible, drive meaningful change, and create healthier, more resilient communities.
Join us! How?
Get your own Pollen Sensor – Track, learn, and act
Want to track pollen exposure in real-time? Join our project and receive a sensor to measure pollen levels on your daily routes. By tracking and sharing data, you help us better understand pollen distribution and its impact on health.
Your actions matter! Whether you walk, cycle, or take public transport, your contribution helps create healthier environments.
Contact us to get your sensor and be part of the change!
Contact
Grant information
Title: Pollen Watch: Tracking pollen levels on daily routes
Acronym: Pollen Watch
Duration: 2025-2026
Funding Agency: Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)
Funding Scheme: Agora
Contact: Lubna Dada(lubna.dada@psi.ch)
Grant info: data.snf.ch