Go with the Flow to dodge air pollution

THE world’s first air pollution tracker has been launched in an effort to help cyclists and other commuters steer clear of toxic ‘hotspots’ while travelling in cities.

Air pollution reached a six-year high in London last month, forcing health chiefs to issue a warning to city-dwellers to stay indoors to protect their health – part of a global problem.

The Flow device is hardly larger than a pack of chewing gum and clips on to clothing or a bag.

It takes the form of an aluminium shell, inside which are sensors that constantly monitor and analyse levels of dust, exhaust fumes and other harmful gases, as well as temperature and humidity.

The Flow features 12 LED lights that indicate air quality, and the data is beamed wirelessly to a mobile app. The report is shown on a detailed map, which flags up high-pollution zones, allowing people to plan their routes accordingly.

International tech company Plume Labs, which unveiled the Flow in January at technology trade show CES in Las Vegas, claims the device can also help measure pollution in the home.

Romain Lacombe, the company’s CEO, said: ‘At a time when the dramatic impact of unclean air is becoming ever more clear, our product will help users enhance their environmental health.’

The Flow is expected to be launched later this year. The price is as yet unconfirmed. For more information, visit plumelabs.com.