What is the problem?

While Kosovo is experiencing a proliferation of air quality data from numerous government and non-government sources, its citizens face challenges in interpreting the data – particularly when it comes from different sources, it changes over time, and reflects immediate, local conditions. In this “information uncertainty” Kosovo’s stakeholders and citizens are struggling to have productive, data-driven conversations about poor air quality and what steps to take to mitigate the negative impact of poor air quality in the short and long term.

The Call

Millennium Foundation Kosovo calls on open data movers, shakers and opinion-makers, start-ups, civil society, the private sector, academia, journalists, designers, technology innovators, and creative problem solvers to submit proposals that address the question:

How might we use outdoor air quality data – possibly in combination with health, economic, transportation, construction, or other data sets – to empower Kosovo’s citizens to make data-informed decisions and to take improved and constructive personal and civic action?

All applicants should propose creative solutions based on the open data from the Government of Kosovo (KEPA/KHMI/NIPH) and/or other credible, vetted open data from national and international institutions to inform Kosovo’s citizens about (1) air quality data and (2) what data-driven steps to take to mitigate the negative impact of poor air quality. Solution should empower Kosovo’s citizens to improve air quality and/or take action to reduce the impacts of poor air quality. When relevant, the solutions should make an effort to address at risk groups that are especially impacted by air pollution (e.g. pregnant women, the elderly, children, individuals with respiratory issues) and help such groups understand and act upon air pollution risks through targeted messages and outreach.