In recent years, studies and analyses on fine particulate matter (PM2.5) have been conducted, and environmental education on PM2.5 has become increasingly important. However, there are few reports on environmental education materials on PM2.5 that can be conducted in a short time. National Institute of Technology, Yuge College (NITYC) is located in Kamijima Town in the Seto Inland Sea, where high concentrations of PM2.5 have been observed despite the island's remote location. Therefore, we proposed and implemented several environmental education programs using a portable sensor for PM2.5 measurements developed at Nagoya University.
First, we observed the differences in PM2.5 concentrations between different fuels when burning rocket stoves. It was confirmed that combining pine cones with firewood as fuel resulted in a decrease in PM2.5 concentration and efficient combustion.
The cause of the high PM2.5 concentration in Kamijima Town is not only long-range transboundary air pollution but also from local pollution such as field burning. Therefore, we used a portable sensor to measure the PM2.5 concentration in Kamijima Town regularly by bicycle and created a PM2.5 distribution map to analyze the air pollution in Kamijima Town. At the beginning of the measurements, stable readings were difficult to obtain due to vibrations from the road and sunlight. However, using a box to shield the light and cushioning material made it possible to obtain stable measurements. These experiments and measurements were carried out by NITYC students and allowed them to deepen their understanding of the atmospheric environment through discussion and analysis.
Finally, we conducted an outreach class at an elementary school by combining small PM2.5 measurements with traditional gas detection tubes. NITYC students were the main teachers and gave lectures and explanations. The NITYC students and elementary school students who participated in these activities showed a great interest in the atmospheric environment, including PM2.5.