In a pioneering step towards sustainable aviation and public health protection, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in partnership with the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), has launched a targeted air quality monitoring initiative across Kenya’s international airports.
The initiative, supported by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) under the Early Warning Systems for East Africa project, seeks to integrate air pollution data into broader climate monitoring frameworks, particularly at critical transport hubs like airports.
During a dissemination meeting held at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, experts presented findings from air quality sensors deployed on 14th April 2025. The event brought together KMD and KAA officials, with technical support from UNEP’s Africa Office, to analyse pollution patterns around the airport and assess implications for public health and environmental management.
“Air pollution doesn’t have any boundaries. Critical institutions like airports are required to implement environmental safeguards to be compliant with WHO guidelines. These air quality sensors are available in real time on the platform iqair.com,” said Ngongang Wandji Danube, Research Fellow at the Stockholm Environment Institute.
14 sensors for seven airports
As part of the programme, 14 air quality sensors have been handed over to KMD, with seven already deployed across Kenya’s key international airports including JKIA, Moi Air Base, Malindi, Kisumu, Eldoret, Wilson, and Moi International Airport in Mombasa.
These sensors collect data on pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 (tiny particles suspended in the air that can be inhaled and cause health problems), as well as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon monoxide. They also record meteorological data like temperature, humidity, and wind patterns to enhance the reliability of pollution forecasting.
The hybrid system allows for better air pollution early warning, especially at high-traffic airport zones that serve as both logistical centres and pollution hotspots.
Understanding pollution in real time
The sensor deployed at Moi International Airport is already delivering real-time insights. Preliminary findings revealed varying levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration in surrounding areas. Although most sites were within national air quality standards, Nyerere Road emerged as a hotspot, exceeding the regulatory limit of 35 µg/m³ – pointing to the need for urgent policy attention.
“This is not just about data collection,” noted Dr Romanus Opiyo, Senior Research Fellow at the Stockholm Environment Institute. “It’s about building institutional capacity to use that data for action. We are working closely with KAA staff to align monitoring results with Kenya’s national air quality standards and global benchmarks.”
Airports as environmental stewards
Airports are complex and often under-recognised sources of air pollution. Emissions come not only from aircraft operations but also from ground support vehicles, heating and cooling systems, and road traffic. Left unchecked, these emissions can affect both airport staff and nearby communities.
To address this, the project emphasises training, data-sharing protocols, and integration of air quality insights into day-to-day airport operations and planning. It also supports broader efforts under the “Early Warnings for All” (EW4All) initiative, which UNEP and partners are promoting to reduce risks from climate and pollution-related hazards across East Africa.
The integration of air quality data into meteorological early warning systems represents a major leap in environmental intelligence. It aligns with UNEP’s air pollution resolution, which encourages regional cooperation and science-informed policy-making.
Looking ahead
The partnership plans to expand the reach of the programme and reinforce Kenya’s leadership in linking air quality, climate data, and public health in transport infrastructure.
“Through partnerships like this, Kenya is setting the pace for sustainable airport operations in Africa,” said Haithum Wingrove, Regional Air Quality Expert and Project Coordinator, Environmental Governance at the UNEP Africa Office.
As airports continue to grow in scale and impact, the commitment to clean air – backed by data and science – could be the difference between progress and pollution.
