Air-Scapes

Measuring air pollution and our exposure to it relies on complex constructions of the concepts of space, air and breathing. My research in scientific practices of measuring the air as a shared environment and a personal envelope of air offers a perspective on why policies aimed as improving exposure do not necessarily line up with each other.

Where air pollution is figured as part of the general environment requires collective action and benefits a non-specific public, air pollution figured as a personal environment requires individual intervention where the benefits are specific to that individual. The variability of air-scapes, the scale, position, and mobility of air, require equally variable interventions.

• Methods. This research was based upon interviews and extensive analysis of scientific papers and policy documents.