Realtime data for air quality as an open API
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Naturvårdsverket |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
| Project duration | November 2013 - August 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The aim of this project, to make available near real-time (NRT) data from air quality measurements as an open API, has been met. The API developed is a so called Sensor Observation Service, which is an OGC standard. Data from several monitoring stations in Sweden is available in the SOS in NRT. A common format for transmitting data has been developed and makes it simple to add further stations. Work to expand the SOS with data from other stations will continue during autumn 2014.
Results and expected effects
The availability of near real-time air quality data via the API makes it possible to present data nationally in a comprehensive manner. It even enables reporting to EEA for presentation at EU level. Anticipated effects are that up-to-date data and information is provided to important user groups such as the public, experts, journalists and politicians in a more timely manner. The project has even contributed to the Swedish EPA´s work to modernise access to environmental data and data hosting.
Approach and implementation
The project has been performed in cooperation with a number of parties, inc. SEPA´s data host (IVL) and IT partner (Softronic), municipalities, consultants, EEA, 52°North and Metria. Although the project was somewhat pressed for time, cooperation between parties worked well. The choice of SOS is in line with developments within INSPIRE for download services. However, it is important to evaluate the service against others that may be simpler in structure, to inform future projects.