IT solutions provider plays part in Commonwealth Games' carbon-neutral mission

North rolls out smart technology to monitor air quality at Birmingham event

IT solutions provider North has revealed how it is playing a part in Birmingham's mission to host the first carbon-neutral Commonwealth Games.

Kicking off today, the two-week event claims to have sustainability measures "woven into every part of its organisation and execution".

IoT specialist North said it has designed and deployed smart technology at key locations around event venues and across the wider city which will measure, monitor and capture data on air quality conditions before, during and after the event.

Boasting revenues of over £60m and offices in Glasgow, North Wales, Camberley, Newcastle and Birmingham, North is the official Smart Environments Provider for the Games.

In this capacity it will use its low-powered, long-range network and air quality sensor-based managed service to record factors including CO2, temperature, pressure and relative humidity, which will be analysed to calculate an air quality index (AQI). Sensors have been installed at areas of high footfall, including at main traffic routes and motorways, key marathon milestones and the entrance and exit of the main Athlete Village on the University of Birmingham campus (pictured).

"We are looking forward to seeing the impact the data collected has on future decision-making in a bid to improve air quality, subsequently aiding the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors," said North CEO Glen Williams.

"Birmingham 2022 has an exciting and forward-thinking agenda to create an event that will leave both a sporting and sustainability legacy in the city."

Williams added: "It is fantastic to see IoT technology deployed at a global event. IoT has the proven ability to change how human beings engage with the environment, whilst creating healthier, greener and more sustainable communities."