By Alistina Shrestha
5 February 2025: AIT School of Engineering and Technology (SET) welcomed Prof. Allen L. Robinson, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Atmospheric Science and Dean of the Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering at Colorado State University (CSU), for a keynote seminar titled “We Don’t All Breathe the Same Air.”
In his opening remarks, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li welcomed Prof. Robinson, highlighting the seminar as a timely discussion of a major global concern—air pollution—and how it directly impacts human health. He also noted that the seminar demonstrated the strong bond and close collaboration between AIT and CSU, fostering collaborative efforts on environmental issues.
The session was attended by Prof. David I. McLean, Vice-Chairperson, AIT Board of Trustees; Dr. Bindu Lohani and Dr. Roshan Shrestha, members of the AIT Board of Trustees, along with AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li, who presented a token of appreciation to Prof. Robinson. SET Dean Prof. Sangam Shrestha also joined the seminar along with faculty members, staff members, and students, who actively participated in post-seminar discussions.
In his presentation, Prof. Robinson focused on PM2.5, a fine particulate matter that significantly impacts air quality and human health. He emphasized that air pollution levels, particularly PM2.5, vary greatly across different regions of the world, with the Global South—including Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa—facing higher pollution levels and elevated health risks. He also shared the alarming statistic that “5-10 million people are dying from elevated air pollution levels globally.” Despite this alarming statistic, he added, “But there is a reason to hope.” Emerging technologies, innovative solutions, and strong international collaboration offer a path to reducing pollution and improving air quality worldwide.
Advancing Air Pollution Monitoring
During the seminar, Prof. Robinson shared insights on the advancements in global air pollution monitoring, including the use of low-cost sensors, mobile monitoring, and satellite remote sensing, integrated with machine learning models. He explored the potential applications of these technologies in Southeast Asia, particularly in response to the ongoing air quality crisis in Thailand.
The need to democratize air pollution monitoring
Prof. Robinson highlighted the importance of democratizing air pollution monitoring by deploying low-cost air quality devices in data-deficient regions such as Central Africa and South Asia. These devices, he noted, are capable of producing high-quality data, enabling researchers to accurately quantify pollution levels and support policymakers in implementing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Potential applications in Thailand and other countries
Addressing Thailand’s ongoing air pollution challenges, Prof. Robinson stressed the importance of local calibration to ensure high-quality data collection for the country’s mitigation efforts. By combining scientific innovation, technological advancements, and strong international partnerships, we can create a future for cleaner air for all. The seminar underscored AIT’s continued commitment to tackling global environmental challenges through collaborative research and knowledge exchange.
Watch the seminar highlights below
