Turning Data into Action: The AIRQUEST Project Fights Air Pollution in the Black Sea Basin
The fight against air pollution in the Black Sea Basin is gaining momentum thanks to the
AIRQUEST project (BSB00168). This crucial initiative unites partners from
Türkiye, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Romania to establish an open-access online platform for air quality data and to raise essential environmental awareness. The latest AIRQUEST Newsletter, from October 2025, details the significant progress being made.
Know What You Breathe: The Digital Platform
The core mission of the project is to empower communities with knowledge—the power to “Know What You Breathe”.
The AIR QUALITY MONITORING PLATFORM, launched in July 2024, provides real-time access to air quality data across the Black Sea Basin. Designed specifically for schools, universities, NGOs, and local authorities, this platform equips communities to interpret the data and take effective action toward cleaner air.
Project Timeline: Key Milestones
The partners have been working diligently, marking several key milestones since the project’s inception:
- Kick-off Meeting (October 21, 2024, Zonguldak, Türkiye): Hosted by ZBEU, partners met to set objectives and discuss strategies for air quality monitoring and community mobilisation.
- Management Meeting (November 14, 2024, Varna, Bulgaria): Hosted by BATTI, the team focused on project administration and coordination among countries.
- Scientific Committee Meeting (February 5, 2025, Varna, Bulgaria): Experts convened to align on monitoring methodologies, data visualisation tools, and scientific goals.
- Management Meeting (May 15-16, 2025, Trabzon, Türkiye): Hosted by DOKA, partners discussed progress updates and next steps for outreach and platform development.
Equipping the Next Generation with STEM
A fundamental driver for sustainable change is education. The AIRQUEST project partners organised
These sessions were designed to equip teachers and future educators with modern tools and methods to teach school children how to find solutions to the air pollution problem through STEM approaches.
The benefits of these trainings are substantial:
- Developing problem-solving skills.
- Bridging theory and practice.
- Boosting teamwork and creativity.
- Finding modern solutions.
The response has been enthusiastic, with more than 140 participants from Türkiye, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Romania taking part.
Read and download the newsletter to follow our journey!
