The City of Madison announced on April 6 the launch of Love My Air Wisconsin, a new platform providing real-time air quality information, educational materials, and activity ideas for students and families. The initiative aims to help residents make informed decisions about their health based on local air quality data.
The availability of accessible air quality information is important as it allows community members to take action to protect themselves from harmful pollutants. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause serious health problems when inhaled, is now tracked by sensors throughout the city. Users can explore hour-by-hour sensor readings and trends in their neighborhoods.
“We are excited to connect our sensors with an easy-to-use communication platform designed for students and families. In addition to displaying real-time air quality information, Love My Air Wisconsin also provides air quality education materials and ideas for activities based on local air quality. These resources empower our community with the information folks need to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,” said Dr. Jessica Price, Sustainability and Resilience Manager for the City of Madison.
Madisonians will have two opportunities this month to engage with the Love My Air Wisconsin team at hands-on events at the Madison Children’s Museum: Adult Swim: Green Vibes Only on April 10, and Breathe Easy, Play Hard on April 11 during the first Dane County Farmers Market of the season.
Love My Air began in Denver in 2018 before expanding into Colorado schools and healthcare centers. The Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin later launched Love My Air Wisconsin by installing sensors at Milwaukee Public Schools locations before partnering with Madison.
“Kids are more vulnerable to air pollution because their lungs are still developing. This collaboration helps parents, schools, and health providers make decisions that keep children healthier,” said Sarah Mears-Kroenig, Air Quality Program Manager for the Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin.
Madison’s sensor network was created through partnerships with several organizations including The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness, Latino Health Council of Dane County, The Hmong Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Public Health Madison and Dane County; funding came from a grant provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
According to the City of Madison, values such as equity, civic engagement, well-being and stewardship guide its efforts toward building a thriving community while providing high-quality services benefiting both residents and visitors.
Additionally,the City ranked fifth in America’s fittest cities according to the 2024 American Fitness Index.
The Common Council works actively to represent residents while advancing safety initiatives.
The city’s flag—adopted in 1962—features symbols representing its lakes as well as a gold circle added in 2018 symbolizing the State Capitol according to official sources.
