PM2.5 Hotspot Identification in Dakar area: An Innovative IoT and Mapping-Based Approach for Effective Air Quality Management

Air pollution has become a major public health concern in large cities in Africa, often exceeding the recommended thresholds set by the WHO. This article introduces an innovative approach leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) and the use of cost-effective sensors to detect areas with high concentrations of fine particles, particularly PM2.5, in Dakar, Senegal. In the context of this research, an experimental device equipped with a GPS module was deployed on a vehicle for spatiotemporal monitoring of fine particle concentrations. Through an intensive measurement campaign spanning nearly two months and covering approximately 30 routes in the Dakar region, five hotspots were clearly identified as the primary anthropogenic sources of particle pollution, such as traffic, industry, and the public landfill. The combination of this innovative approach with the use of a community-scale geographic information system will provide an even deeper understanding of the spatial distribution of pollution. This toolkit will serve as a powerful instrument for local authorities in decision-making, enabling them to implement targeted measures effectively to improve air quality at the local level.