The ongoing war in Ukraine is not only a humanitarian crisis but also an environmental one. Fires, destruction, and explosions have significantly impacted natural ecosystems, contributing to soil, river, and air pollution. Among these, air pollution stands out as one of the most pressing threats, with potential consequences for climate change.
The Hidden Cost of War: Air Pollution and Climate Impact
The devastation of forests due to shelling and missile strikes releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere. Beyond CO₂, explosions contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide. Additionally, toxic elements are dispersed when missiles explode mid-air or strike buildings and infrastructure, further contaminating the environment.
Citizen Observatories: A Key Role in Environmental Monitoring
In the face of these challenges, citizen observatories in Ukraine have become crucial for tracking air quality and providing real-time data. These platforms offer daily updates on pollutants like fine dust, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. However, monitoring heavy metals in the atmosphere remains a challenge due to limited research access.
CitiObs in Mykolaiv: A Community-Driven Approach
In Mykolaiv, CitiObs collaborates with local citizens to study atmospheric conditions using the Smart Citizen system. This portable monitoring device measures temperature, humidity, pressure, noise, fine dust, and carbon dioxide, making air quality data accessible through an interactive platform (Smart Citizen). By allowing real-time tracking across different locations, it enables communities to understand and respond to environmental threats.
Uncovering Heavy Metals Through Citizen Science
Public scientists in Mykolaiv are exploring innovative methods to detect toxic heavy metals in the air. One promising approach involves analyzing tree leaves, which naturally capture airborne pollutants. Researchers from the National Ecological Center of Ukraine (NECU), Inna Tymchenko and Diana Krysinska, along with student ecologists, have collected leaf samples from areas affected by explosions and shelling. These samples have been sent to certified laboratories to test for hazardous elements such as arsenic, mercury, and lead.
Monitoring for a Safer Future
Despite the challenges of war, the commitment to environmental monitoring remains strong. Ongoing efforts by CitiObs and NECU highlight the power of citizen science in addressing ecological threats. By engaging local communities and leveraging technology, these initiatives ensure that even in times of crisis, environmental data remains a vital tool for resilience and action.
