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Rio Grande International Study Center unveils binational air monitoring data, schedules public workshop
Summary
The Rio Grande International Study Center reported deployment of 19 air sensors across Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, posted PM2.5 data on a public dashboard, and invited the public to a June 7 hands-on workshop. The group asked the mayor to appoint a city representative to a binational air council.
Presenters from the Rio Grande International Study Center told the City Council on June 2 that they installed 19 air-monitoring sensors in Laredo and Nuevo Laredo and have been collecting PM2.5 (particulate matter) data since January.
Dr. Angela Becquerel (project manager) and Chrissy Daniel Bridal (community engagement partnership officer) said the project’s online dashboard displays twice-daily updates for the first quarter of data and that the center will host a binational community air monitoring workshop on June 7 (9 a.m.–noon for Laredo; 2–5 p.m. for Nuevo Laredo). They said the workshop will be open to the public and include technical presentations from partners, including a visiting researcher from the University of Massachusetts and Earthjustice.
Speakers described four project components: sensor deployment and data dissemination; community engagement; creation of a binational air council and executive committee; and public outreach and education. Becquerel identified targeted Laredo neighborhoods where monitors were placed, including Via San Justine, Indian Sunset, Akero Subdivision, Delmar Hills A, Guadalupe, El Drongo and San Francisco Javier.
The presenters asked the mayor to appoint a representative to the binational air council so Laredo can participate formally in binational discussions about air quality across the border.
Councilmembers and staff asked for flyers and additional outreach. The project team said the dashboard and flyers exist and that additional outreach was planned.
This report is based on the June 2 council meeting presentation by Rio Grande International Study Center staff.
