Understanding Environmental Monitoring We are more aware than ever before of the impact of human activity on the environment, and how important it is for futue rgenerations that we seek to limit such impact and preserve the environmental structure we have. The quality and health of the environment can be assed through a number of factors, from air and water purity to soil quality, and environmental monitoring collects data on all these and more to build a real-time picture of the health of the environment itself. This allows researchers to study the changes in the environment over time caused by various influences. This could be monitoring the effects of vehicle emissions or air travel and so on, helping to shape the governance of these industries to encourage greener approaches and limit further environmental degradation. Environmental monitoring systems Understanding the importance of monitoring environmental impact, the next question is, how is it achieved? Systems vary greatly, but all use some form of sensor to analyze an aspect of the environment and record data over time so changes can be plotted and understood. Sometimes, this could be a simple handheld device, such as a water purity tester that is used on site to test water quality each day. But increasingly, environmental monitoring systems are automated solutions comprising of a number of networked sensors that record and transmit data, combining it all into a database that covers all aspects of an environment to give precise information of any changes. A good example of this type of system is found in smart traffic control systems. They have sensors at roadside monitoring emissions, so they can adjust traffic flow at the point of impact, but also provide the detailed information required for legislators to shape policy on high-emission vehicles to limit long-term air quality issues. The importance of Environmental Monitoring Systems within the Automotive Industry With modern vehicles operating under ever tightening pollution legislation across the world, maintaining the efficiencies mandated by regulatory bodies is an increasing challenge. This is because a vehicle doesn’t have to comply just when it is new, but should offer ongoing emissions compliance throughout its life. Unfortunately, as components wear or suffer damage through use, emissions can increase, damaging the environment more. That is why vehicles today are fitted with advanced environmental monitoring systems that capture the performance of major components to quickly identify such issues. The latest evolution of automotive environmental monitoring provides real-time evaluation of the vehicles emissions, alerting drivers to issues that may need resolving if higher than normal emissions are recorded. A key technology for the future Balancing our need to utilize technology that impacts the environment with a desire to protect that same environment means constantly being aware of the impact of our actions as individuals, organizations and even as the human race collectively. Environmental monitoring enables us to visualize the impact we have and take measures to minimize disruption and ensure that we are doing everything we can to preserve a healthy environment. With this in mind, we can think of environmental monitoring as a crucial component in securing a healthy future for the planet, and advances in these technologies drive our climate response and promote a cleaner and healthier world for all.