Air pollution, citizen science, and the future of mobility in low- and middle-income countries

Road transport-related air pollution presents a pressing environmental and public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where monitoring infrastructure and regulatory enforcement are often limited. This study investigates ambient air pollution in urban Ghana using a mixed-methods approach that integrates citizen science, stakeholder interviews, and real-time monitoring with low-cost sensors. Measurements from three urban hotspots revealed concentrations of Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM10) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) exceeding WHO guidelines, with direct links to respiratory illnesses, reduced productivity, and increased healthcare costs. Citizen science effectively bridges data gaps and raises public awareness about air quality. The findings emphasise the importance of decentralised governance, stricter vehicle emissions standards, and improved training for health professionals in environmental health. Additionally, the study explores the political and economic complexities of regulating used vehicle imports and implementing clean mobility policies. By triangulating empirical data with lived experiences, this research demonstrates how citizen science can inform equitable and sustainable transport transitions. The study contributes to discussions on future mobility, climate justice, urban resilience, and community engagement in environmental governance. It promotes air quality management, emphasising localised action, cross-sector collaboration, and international partnerships to address the interconnected challenges of air pollution, poverty, and climate change.